Your Purse is Dirtier Than a Toilet Seat. Here's How to Change That.

A new study by Initial Washroom Hygiene Solutions said a lot of the stuff we stuff in our bags is covered in germs. Topping the list is hand cream, which can carry more bacteria than a toilet seat. Also up there are lipstick and mascara. I'd bet that most of us keep those items in our purses, along with a whole lot more stuff. 

The study also found leather handbags tend to carry the most bacteria because the spongy texture makes a perfect breeding ground. While we'll never give up our leather purses, we definitely can be more conscious of the cleanliness of our bags. Here are easy ways to keep your purse germ-free.

Don't store loose food

It may be tempting to throw an apple in your bag for a healthy snack, but think of all the bacteria hanging around at the bottom of your purse. Put the apple or other fruit in a ziploc bag before tossing it in your purse. If you love to munch on candy, mints, or gum, make sure they're always tightly sealed in their wrappers. 

Clean it weekly

Make it a habit to clean out your purse every week. Take out all old receipts, wrappers, and wipe out the bottom with a damp cloth to pick up any loose crumbs. This not only will keep your purse clean, it will also make it much more organized and lighter!

Wash your hands often

The more you wash your hands, the cleaner your handbag will be. It only takes one search for your keys to transfer bacteria on your hand to the bottom of your purse. Wash them with warm water and soap and make sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds.  

Keep makeup in a separate bag. 

Most women keep some form of makeup in their bag, but few do so the right way. The cleanest way is to put your items in a small, separate cosmetics bag before putting it in your purse. If your lipstick or mascara is just lying at the bottom of your purse, germs are likely to get into them from your phone or keys. 

Use hand sanitizer. 

When you're not able to wash your hands properly, hand sanitizer will do the trick in a pinch. You can also use travel sanitizing wipes to sterilize your purse contents on the go. Just remember that hand sanitizer isn't as good as soap and water!

How do you keep your purse clean?