CCNMatthews reports that many of the spots in your home most contaminated with bacteria can be found not in the bathroom but in the kitchen. Research done at the University of Arizona found places in the kitchen contaminated with staggering numbers of harmful bacteria. Topping the list were sponges followed by dishcloths, sink drains, faucet handles and refrigerator handles.
Reducing the numbers of those potentially harmful bacteria is easy, say the food safety experts that staff the toll free consumer line operated by the Food Safety Information Society. Start by mixing 1 tsp (5 mL) unscented bleach with 3 cups (750 mL) water. Put this mixture into a spray bottle for quick use on cutting boards, sinks and counter tops.
Get rid of those dirty sponges or dip them in the bleach mixture after every use and boil them in water for three minutes each week. Include them in the dishwasher with each load of dishes. Replace sponges every few weeks.

Change dish cloths at least once each day and wash them in hot water in a washing machine. Food and moisture trapped in dish cloths allow bacteria to multiply. Use paper towels for major clean-ups especially of raw juices from meat, poultry and fish.
Clean the kitchen sinks with hot soapy water before washing dishes and especially before washing raw fruits and vegetables. Do not wash raw meat, poultry and fish in the sinks as their bacterial laden raw juices can contaminate the sink, faucets and nearby counters. If necessary, absorb excess moisture from these foods with paper towels.
Each day wipe kitchen faucets with hot soapy water. Wipe down refrigerator handles with the bleach mixture.