Keeping Your Home Clean and Germ Free This Winter

^{5 minute reads}

Winter is here, bringing cozy nights by the fire, and unfortunately, an increased risk of germs and illnesses. Keeping your home clean and germ-free during the colder months is essential for your family's health and well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain a healthy home environment this winter.

Regular cleaning and disinfecting

Germs and viruses thrive on surfaces, especially in the winter when windows are closed and air circulation is reduced. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops are prime areas for germ accumulation.

What should I do?

Daily cleaning: Make it a habit to clean high-touch surfaces daily. These include doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and countertops. Use disinfectant wipes or a solution of water and disinfectant to kill germs effectively.

Weekly cleaning: Schedule a weekly deep clean of your home. Pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, as these areas are hotspots for bacteria and viruses. Scrub sinks, toilets, and showers with a disinfectant cleaner. Don't forget to clean and disinfect appliances like your refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop.

Proper hand hygiene

Hands are the main conduit for transferring germs to your face and other surfaces. Frequent handwashing can drastically reduce the likelihood of spreading infections.

What should I do?

• Handwashing: Encourage family members to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coming home, before eating, and after using the restroom.

• Hand Sanitisers: Place hand sanitisers in key locations like the entryway, kitchen, and bathrooms to make it convenient for everyone to sanitize their hands regularly.

Air Quality Matters

Poor indoor air quality can contribute to the spread of airborne illnesses and aggravate respiratory conditions. Proper ventilation and air purification can significantly reduce indoor pollutants and pathogens.

What should I do?

• Ventilation: Open windows for a few minutes each day to let in fresh air, which helps dilute indoor air pollutants and reduce the concentration of germs.

• Air Purifiers: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne particles, including viruses and bacteria. Placing them in commonly used rooms can improve overall air quality and reduce illness spread.

Boost Your Home’s Defence

Preventing germs from entering your home is the first line of defence against illnesses. Simple measures can make a big difference in keeping your home clean and germ-free.

What should I do?

• Disinfectant Mats and Shoe Racks: Place disinfectant mats at the entrance for wiping off shoes and keep a shoe rack by the door. Encourage everyone to remove their shoes before entering to reduce dirt and germ entry.

• Humidifiers: Maintain optimal humidity levels (30-50%) with humidifiers. Moist air helps keep the mucous membranes in your respiratory system moist, making them more resistant to infections.

Tackle Laundry Hygiene

Germs and viruses can linger on fabrics, making laundry hygiene crucial, especially during winter when clothes are in contact with contaminated surfaces more frequently.

What should I do?

• Frequent Washing: Wash bedding, towels, and clothing regularly in hot water to kill germs. Use a disinfectant laundry additive for extra protection.

• Separate Laundry: If someone in the household is ill, wash their items separately to prevent cross-contamination. Wear gloves when handling contaminated laundry and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

• Dry Thoroughly: Ensure clothes are dried completely, preferably in a hot dryer, to eliminate any remaining germs.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can create a healthier and more germ-free environment for your family this winter. Stay diligent and proactive to ensure a happy and healthy winter season for you and your loved ones.

Stay warm and healthy!

Regards,

Body & Mind