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Getting sick is bad enough, but if you don’t take the right steps after recovering, you could set yourself up for another round of illness. Germs can linger on surfaces, your body needs time to fully bounce back, and small changes can make a big difference in how you feel.

Here are 10 essential things to do after being sick to make sure you fully recover and prevent reinfection.

1. Change Your Bed Sheets & Pillowcases 🛏️

You spent days coughing, sneezing, and sweating in bed—so it’s time for a deep clean! Germs, sweat, and bacteria can linger on your sheets and pillowcases, so wash them as soon as you start feeling better.

✔ Wash in hot water

✔ Use hypoallergenic detergent if your skin is sensitive after being sick

✔ If possible, let them air dry in sunlight for extra freshness

2. Swap Out Your Toothbrush 🪥

Your toothbrush harbors bacteria, and while it may not reinfect you, it’s still best to replace it after being sick—especially if you had strep throat or the flu. If you use an electric toothbrush, replace the brush head or disinfect it by soaking in hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes.

3. Disinfect Your Home 🧼

Germs love to hide on everyday surfaces, so a quick wipe-down can help prevent others in your household (or yourself) from getting sick again.

Focus on disinfecting:

🖥 Electronics (phones, keyboards, remotes)

🚪 Doorknobs & light switches

🚽 Bathroom surfaces

🍼 Kids’ toys & high-touch items

Use disinfecting wipes or sprays with at least 60% alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

4. Wash or Replace Your Towels 🚿

You’ve been using your towel while sick, and moist environments breed bacteria. If possible, swap out bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths for fresh ones.

✔ Wash in hot water

✔ Use vinegar in the rinse cycle for extra germ-fighting power

✔ Let towels dry completely before using again

5. Throw Out Contaminated Tissues & Trash 🗑️

Used tissues, cough drop wrappers, and other sick-day trash can still carry viruses and bacteria. Take a moment to:

✅ Empty bedroom and bathroom trash bins

✅ Wipe down trash can lids

✅ Wash your hands thoroughly afterward

6. Wash Your Pajamas & Sick-Day Clothes 👚

If you wore the same cozy sweater or pajama set while sick, chances are they need a deep clean. Germs can linger on fabric, so throw all your sick-day clothes in the wash.

Bonus: Fresh clothes make you feel healthier!

7. Air Out Your Room 🌬️

After being stuck inside for days, your home could use a breath of fresh air! Opening windows for even 10-15 minutes helps:

☀️ Remove stale, germ-filled air

💨 Increase oxygen flow

😌 Improve mood and energy levels

If possible, let sunlight in—it acts as a natural disinfectant!

8. Replace or Clean Your Humidifier 💦

If you used a humidifier while sick, it’s time to deep clean it before using it again. Warm, damp environments can breed mold and bacteria, which can make you sick again.

✔ Empty and scrub the water tank

✔ Use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria

✔ Let it dry completely before refilling

9. Wash Your Water Bottle & Dishes 🥤

If you used the same water bottle, mug, or dishes while sick, don’t just rinse them—give them a proper deep clean.

✅ Wash with hot, soapy water

✅ Use a bottle brush to reach inside narrow openings

✅ Run through the dishwasher if safe

Reusable straws and lids also need cleaning—don’t forget them!

10. Give Your Body Extra Care 🧘‍♀️

Even if you feel better, your body is still recovering. Give it the support it needs with:

💧 Extra hydration (water, herbal tea, electrolyte drinks)

🛌 More rest (even if you feel fine, don’t overdo it!)

🍊 Immune-boosting foods (vitamin C, probiotics, bone broth)

🧘 Gentle movement (light stretching or walking to regain strength)

Final Thoughts: Small Steps, Big Impact

Taking these extra steps after being sick ensures you recover fully and don’t spread lingering germs. It only takes a few minutes to disinfect, swap out linens, and refresh your space—but it makes a huge difference in preventing reinfection and keeping your household healthy.

Have any post-sickness habits that help you feel better faster? Share in the comments! Stay well! 💙

#PostSicknessRecovery #StayHealthy #FluSeason #SelfCare