Not only is it important for a kitchen to be aesthetically pleasing but it should never be forgotten that the food preparation area of your home must be kept hygienic too In a recent Consumer Reports report, some surprising offenders have been highlighted when it comes to germs in the kitchen. Whilst sinks and taps tend to be obvious areas to keep clean, there are other culprits which might not be so immediately obvious. The feature highlighted the biggest offenders as Sticky Fingers Your own fingers can spread more germs than any other tool in your kitchen. Make sure you always scrub your hands with hot, soapy water before and after preparing food and after handling garbage. Your stuff and work surfaces and counter tops Your handbag and keys etc. can transport bacteria from outside the home onto food preparation surfaces. Remember that mail has also been in many hands before reaching your kitchen. Keep all such belongings away from counter tops and wash kitchen surfaces regularly with hot, soapy water.Reusable Grocery Bags These offenders are accused of smuggling germs to and from the supermarket. Playing your part in helping the environment may be contaminating the environment in your kitchen. Reusing the same bags to transport raw meats and vegetables can eventually cause bacteria to grow on the surface of the bags. If you want to continue to be green, wash your reusable bags frequently, either by hand or in the gentle cycle of your washing machine. Kitchen Sink The kitchen sink harbors dirty dishes and is a breeding ground for bacteria. Your sinks taps are usually the first stop after handling raw foodthus, a magnet for salmonella and other dangerous bacteria. Ensure your kitchen sink receives regular cleanings with very hot water and soap and take special care to give your taps a thorough clean.