Clean your toothbrush

Keep toothbrushes separate, as contact between heads is a big cause of spreading colds and flu. And clean them properly! Scientists at Manchester University found that the average toothbrush contains 10 million germs, including E. coli. Dr Ron Cutler, a microbiologist at Queen Mary University of London, recommends rinsing the brush every few days under boiling water. Or put the family toothbrushes – or electric brush heads – in the dishwasher (top rack) every week.