Cleaning for a Healthier Home During Cold and Flu Season.
Cleaning Oversights to Avoid During Cold and Flu Season
As the weather cools down and the days get shorter, many of us start to feel the effects of cold and flu season. While we’re busy trying to stay healthy, it’s easy to overlook some essential cleaning tasks that can help prevent the spread of illness. In this article, we’ll explore seven common cleaning oversights to avoid during cold and flu season.
High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. These areas tend to be more frequently touched and handled, making them the perfect place to spread illness. To avoid this, focus on high-traffic areas such as:
High-Use Items
High-use items are often the source of germs and bacteria. These items tend to be touched and handled frequently, making them a hotbed for illness. To avoid this, focus on high-use items such as:
Frequently Forgotten Areas
There are several areas in our homes that are often forgotten during cleaning.
Bacteria find a cozy home in the unlikeliest of places.
The Unconventional Wisdom of Bacterial Habitats
In the world of microbiology, researchers have long been fascinated by the unique environments that support the growth and survival of bacteria. While traditional laboratory settings often prioritize sterile conditions, some scientists have discovered that certain bacteria thrive in more…unconventional habitats.
The Sponge as a Bacterial Oasis
One such habitat is the humble sponge. Research has shown that a sponge functions better than a lab petri dish as a cozy spot for bacteria to thrive.
The Dangers of Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination is a serious issue in the kitchen, and it can have severe consequences on our health. When we use the same sponge or cloth to clean surfaces that have come into contact with raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs, we risk transferring bacteria and other pathogens to our food. This can lead to food poisoning, which can be life-threatening in severe cases.
The Types of Bacteria Involved
There are several types of bacteria that can be found on raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs. Some of the most common include:
Don’t forget to clean the surfaces that are hard to reach, like the top of the toilet handle or the inside of the toilet bowl.
Cleaning the Toilet
Cleaning the toilet is a crucial part of maintaining a hygienic bathroom. It’s essential to follow a step-by-step approach to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Pre-Cleaning Preparation
Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to gather all the necessary cleaning supplies. These may include:
Having the right cleaning tools and supplies will make the cleaning process more efficient and effective.
Cleaning the Toilet Bowl
The toilet bowl is the most critical area to clean, as it’s where bacteria and germs tend to accumulate. To clean the toilet bowl, follow these steps:
The Hidden Dangers of Kitchen Sinks
A Common Source of Bacterial Contamination
Kitchen sinks are often overlooked as a potential source of bacterial contamination. However, they can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like coliform, salmonella, and E. coli. In fact, studies have shown that up to 45% of kitchen sinks harbor these bacteria.
How Bacteria Spread
Bacteria can spread through various means, including:
Cleaning the Vegetable Compartments and Meat Drawer
When it comes to cleaning the vegetable compartments and meat drawer, it’s essential to prioritize the removal of bacteria and other microorganisms that can contaminate food. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) recommend using a solution of baking soda and water or a nonabrasive, all-purpose cleaner to effectively clean these areas.
Effective Cleaning Methods
Tips for Effective Cleaning
The Hidden Dangers of NTM in Your Home
NTM is a type of bacteria that can cause lung disease in people with weakened immune systems. It’s often found in soil, water, and building materials. NTM can be spread through the air when it’s released from contaminated surfaces, such as showerheads, or through contact with contaminated water.
How NTM Enters Your Home
NTM can enter your home through various means, including:
Cleaning and Preventing NTM
Cleaning and maintaining your showerhead can help prevent NTM from entering your home.
The Dangers of Chemical Cleaning Products
Chemical cleaning products have become a staple in many households, but their impact on our health and the environment is often overlooked. The harsh chemicals used in these products can have severe consequences, ranging from mild irritation to life-threatening conditions.
The Risks of Chemical Cleaning Products
Dusting can also be a time-consuming process, especially for those with large spaces or multiple levels of furniture.
The Importance of Dusting in a Healthy Home
Dusting is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy home environment. It helps to remove allergens, dust mites, and other particles that can exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies. In this article, we will explore the importance of dusting and provide tips on how to do it effectively.
Why Dusting is Important
Dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in dusty environments.
