A new report in the Daily Mail newspaper has revealed how important it is that kitchens are kept hygienic, backing up experts who recommend anti-bacterial sinks and waste disposal units. The average kitchen sink can contain more than 500,000 bacteria per square inch than a typical toilet, with kitchen sponges containing a massive 200,000 times more bacteria than a toilet. Kitchen bin lids also typically have a high bacteria count 1.2 million per 100cm squared as opposed to 759,950 on a toilet seat. Waste disposal units, such as those manufactured by Insinkerator, and anti-bacterial sinks, can help homeowners keep kitchens clean and hygienic. The study, carried out for cleaning brand Jeyes, revealed some disturbing findings. Hygiene expert Dr Lisa Ackerley found that a typical outdoor barbeque contains a huge 1.7 million microbes per 100cm sq, even if it might look clean to the naked eye. This makes the average barbeque the dirtiest surface in the garden, with 124 per cent more germs than a toilet seat. Whilst 71 per cent of householders clean their kitchen table every day and 42 per cent clean their toilet daily, just 28 per cent clean their patio table more than twice a year. Dr Ackerley said We often see our gardens as an extension of our homes but they could become a reservoir of harmful bacteria. They potentially give rise to illness and infection if transferred to your food or your mouth by your hands. To help keep the family safe, I would suggest cleaning and disinfecting garden furniture and barbecues prior to use. And, if you have small children, then remember to clean areas that may come into contact with their hands - such as decking and play equipment. Using an appropriate disinfectant could significantly reduce this risk and lead to a healthier, safer outdoor experience for all.