Simple Cleaning Tips to Protect Your Home During Flu Season
As flu season approaches, it becomes more important than ever to maintain a clean and sanitized home. The flu virus, along with other germs, can easily spread in high-traffic areas, especially through frequently touched surfaces. By adopting simple cleaning habits and incorporating a few additional practices into your routine, you can help protect your home and reduce the risk of illness for you and your family.
Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces Daily
Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 24 hours, making it essential to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. Focus on areas such as doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, refrigerator handles, and faucet handles. Use a disinfectant spray or wipes specifically designed to kill viruses and bacteria, or make a DIY disinfectant by mixing one cup of water with one tablespoon of bleach.
For electronics, such as phones and tablets, use disinfectant wipes that are safe for electronics or a microfiber cloth dampened with a mixture of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water. Cleaning these high-touch areas regularly can significantly reduce the chances of germs spreading throughout your home.
Wash Your Hands Often
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs is by washing your hands regularly. Make sure to wash with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching potentially contaminated surfaces. Encourage everyone in your household to adopt this habit, especially during flu season.
Keep hand sanitizer readily available in areas like the entryway, kitchen, and bathroom for situations where handwashing may not be immediately possible. Ensuring that your family follows good hand hygiene can help minimize the spread of the flu virus in your home.
Use Disposable Cleaning Products
When cleaning during flu season, consider using disposable cleaning products, such as paper towels, disinfectant wipes, and disposable mop pads. Unlike reusable cloths and sponges, disposable products can be discarded after use, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
If you prefer to use reusable cleaning cloths, be sure to wash them in hot water after each use and allow them to dry completely. The same goes for any reusable mop heads—wash and disinfect them thoroughly after cleaning to prevent the spread of germs around your home.
Focus on Soft Surfaces
Flu viruses can also linger on soft surfaces like carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture. Vacuum these areas regularly to remove dirt and debris, and consider using a steam cleaner or hiring a professional cleaning service for a deeper clean.
For items like pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals, wash them in hot water whenever possible. If certain items aren’t machine washable, spray them with a fabric-safe disinfectant spray or leave them in direct sunlight for a few hours to help kill any lingering germs.
Clean the Air with Proper Ventilation
Good ventilation can help reduce the concentration of airborne germs and improve indoor air quality. Open windows periodically to allow fresh air to circulate, even on cooler days. You can also use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture airborne particles, including flu viruses, pet dander, and dust mites.
In addition, change your HVAC system’s air filters regularly to ensure they are functioning effectively. During flu season, it may be helpful to switch to a filter that is specifically designed to capture smaller particles, which can further protect your home from airborne germs.
Wash Bedding and Towels Frequently
Since the flu virus can easily spread through shared items, wash bedding, towels, and other linens frequently during flu season. Use the hottest water setting recommended for the fabric to kill any lingering germs.
Encourage each family member to use their own towels and avoid sharing bedding or blankets. This simple step can prevent cross-contamination and help keep germs contained.
Disinfect Kitchen and Bathroom Surfaces
The kitchen and bathroom are high-traffic areas where germs can easily spread. Clean and disinfect surfaces such as countertops, sinks, and faucet handles daily. Use a disinfectant spray or a mixture of bleach and water to kill bacteria and viruses on hard surfaces.
In the kitchen, clean appliances like the microwave, refrigerator, and stove, as these are areas that tend to collect germs from hands and food particles. In the bathroom, be sure to regularly clean the toilet, shower, and sink with a disinfectant cleaner to prevent the spread of germs.
Maintain Clean Floors
Floors can harbor germs, especially if you’re tracking in dirt and bacteria from outside. During flu season, it’s a good idea to remove shoes at the door to prevent bringing contaminants inside. Vacuum and mop floors regularly, particularly in high-traffic areas like the entryway, kitchen, and living room.
For hard floors, use a disinfectant solution in your mop water to kill germs effectively. For carpets, consider a deep-cleaning method, such as steam cleaning, to remove dirt, bacteria, and allergens that may have settled into the fibers.
Protect Your Home During Flu Season
Keeping your home clean during flu season doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on high-touch surfaces, practicing good hand hygiene, ventilating your home, and cleaning frequently used items, you can create a healthier environment for your family. Regular disinfecting and thoughtful cleaning habits can make a significant difference in minimizing the spread of germs and viruses in your home. If you need extra help maintaining a clean and sanitized space, Signature Maids offers professional cleaning services tailored to your needs. Visit the Signature Maids contact page to schedule a cleaning service and keep your home protected all flu season long.
