Flu season can turn your home into a breeding ground for germs, as the flu virus is easily spread through contact with contaminated surfaces and close interactions. Keeping your home germ-free during this time is crucial for preventing illness and maintaining a healthy environment for you and your family. This blog post provides essential tips on how to disinfect key areas of your home, compares DIY cleaning methods with store-bought disinfectants, and discusses when it might be beneficial to consider hiring a professional cleaning service for thorough sanitization.
Certain surfaces in your home are more likely to harbor germs and bacteria due to frequent contact. Targeting these high-touch areas is essential for reducing the spread of germs during flu season.
Doorknobs and Handles
Doorknobs and handles are touched by everyone who enters and exits your home. They are prime locations for germs to linger. To disinfect these surfaces, use a disinfecting wipe or spray that is effective against flu viruses. Be sure to clean both sides of the door handle and any other areas where hands frequently make contact.
Light Switches
Light switches are another high-touch surface that often gets overlooked. Regularly wipe down light switches with disinfecting wipes or a cloth dampened with a disinfectant solution. This will help reduce the risk of germs spreading through touch.
Countertops and Tables
Countertops and dining tables are surfaces where food is prepared and consumed, making them prone to contamination. Disinfect these areas thoroughly with an effective cleaner, especially after meals and food preparation. Pay attention to both kitchen counters and dining tables, ensuring that all surfaces are cleaned and sanitized.
Remote Controls and Electronics
Remote controls, phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are frequently handled but often neglected during cleaning. Wipe down these items with disinfecting wipes that are safe for electronics. Be sure to clean the screens, buttons, and any other frequently touched areas.
Faucet Handles and Sink Areas
Faucet handles and sink areas are frequently used and can accumulate germs and bacteria. Use a disinfectant to clean faucet handles, sink basins, and surrounding areas. This helps to reduce the risk of spreading germs when washing hands or performing other tasks.
Tips on Disinfecting High-Touch Areas
Proper cleaning and disinfecting techniques are essential for ensuring that high-touch areas remain germ-free. Here are some effective strategies:
Use the Right Disinfectants
When choosing a disinfectant, look for products that are proven to kill viruses, including the flu virus. Check the label for claims regarding effectiveness against influenza or other viruses. Disinfectants with at least 70% alcohol content or those containing bleach are generally effective. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and contact time to ensure the disinfectant works effectively.
Wipe or Spray and Let It Sit
To effectively kill germs, apply disinfectant to surfaces and allow it to sit for the recommended contact time before wiping it away. This ensures that the disinfectant has adequate time to work. For many products, this means letting the disinfectant remain on the surface for several minutes.
Regular Cleaning Routine
Establish a regular cleaning routine to keep high-touch areas sanitized. During flu season, increase the frequency of cleaning for these surfaces to twice a day or more, depending on the level of use. This proactive approach helps to minimize the risk of germs spreading throughout your home.
Use Disposable Cleaning Cloths
For high-touch surfaces, consider using disposable cleaning cloths or wipes to avoid cross-contamination. Disposable options ensure that germs are not spread from one surface to another and eliminate the need for laundering dirty cloths.
Both DIY cleaning methods and store-bought disinfectants have their advantages and limitations. Understanding these can help you make informed choices about maintaining a germ-free home.
DIY Cleaning Methods
DIY cleaning solutions can be effective for everyday cleaning tasks and are often made from readily available household items. Common DIY disinfectants include:
Vinegar and Baking Soda: A mixture of vinegar and baking soda can clean and deodorize surfaces. However, vinegar is not an effective disinfectant for killing viruses, including the flu virus.
Alcohol Solutions: Solutions with at least 70% isopropyl alcohol can effectively disinfect surfaces. They are useful for cleaning electronics and high-touch areas.
While DIY methods can be effective for general cleaning, they may not always provide the level of disinfection needed to combat viruses like the flu. For critical areas, especially during flu season, it may be beneficial to use commercial disinfectants specifically designed to kill viruses.
Store-Bought Disinfectants
Store-bought disinfectants are formulated to kill a wide range of germs and viruses, including the flu virus. They are often tested and approved for effectiveness, providing reassurance that they will work as intended. Look for products that have been tested and proven effective against influenza and follow the instructions for optimal results.
During peak flu season, maintaining a high level of cleanliness and disinfection is crucial. Hiring a professional cleaning service can offer several advantages:
Expertise and Training
Professional cleaners are trained in the use of specialized cleaning products and techniques that ensure thorough sanitization. They are knowledgeable about the most effective methods for cleaning and disinfecting various surfaces, including high-touch areas.
Advanced Equipment
Professional cleaning services often use advanced equipment and high-quality disinfectants that may not be available to consumers. This equipment can provide a deeper level of cleaning and disinfection, helping to eliminate germs more effectively.
Consistent and Comprehensive Cleaning
Professional cleaning services provide consistent and comprehensive cleaning. They can establish a regular cleaning schedule that ensures high-touch areas are sanitized frequently, reducing the risk of germ spread.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that your home is being cleaned and disinfected by professionals can provide peace of mind during flu season. You can trust that your home is being treated with the utmost care and that every effort is being made to maintain a germ-free environment.
Keeping your home germ-free during flu season requires a proactive approach to cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces. By focusing on key areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, and using effective disinfectants, you can significantly reduce the spread of germs. While DIY cleaning methods can be useful, store-bought disinfectants often provide more reliable protection against viruses. For thorough sanitization, especially during peak flu season, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure comprehensive cleaning and peace of mind. Taking these steps will help create a healthier environment and reduce the risk of illness for you and your family.