Revealed: one in seven UK takeaways have failed food hygiene tests

More than 7,000 takeaways and 8,000 restaurants have not passed inspections, with huge hygiene disparities nationwide

Toxic chemicals in household dust linked to cancer and infertility

Scientists find scores of harmful chemicals in indoor dust including phthalates linked to developmental problems in babies

Should I stop using antibacterial handwash and gels?

With the FDA banning a number of chemicals associated with antibacterial products, maybe it’s time to go back to old-fashioned soap and water

Dyson Airblades or paper towels: which is more hygienic?

Another piece of research has stoked up the beef between Dyson and paper towel manufacturers. But perhaps it’s not drying our hands that’s the problem ...

People with a vagina have needs – but making their baby-cannon smell of fruit is not one of them

Lindy West: It wasn’t true, but the story that Sweet Peach Probiotics wanted to re-aroma women’s vaginas said a lot about men’s attitudes

Is it really healthier to live without shampoo?

Sali Hughes: A new book supporting the 'no-poo' movement suggests that chemical detergents ruin your hair, but you'll need to pass through a smelly stage to achieve luscious results

Should I be more hygienic?

There is mounting evidence that washing our hands regularly can protect against viruses, so why don't we do it enough?

Hand sanitisers: saved by the gel?

Antibacterial hand sanitiser has spread from the hospital ward to the high street – and its producers are making a killing. But who really needs it?

Dirt is everywhere – in sex, in class, in art and, yes readers, in my home

Suzanne Moore: We shell out for antibacterial wipes and Cillit Bang while third world children die because of a lack of basic sanitation – that's the real dirt