Cleaning to Prevent Winter Illnesses

Winter is an especially important time for cleaning, as it can help prevent the spread of winter illnesses such as the flu, colds, RSV, strep throat and COVID. The way you clean and what you clean plus how often can make the difference in spreading illness when a member of your family is sick. It can also help keep incoming germs at bay to prevent your family from getting sick at all. These tips along with personal cleaning habits like washing hands frequently can help keep your family from catching and spreading wintertime illnesses.

Clean high-touch surfaces at least daily –

High touch surfaces include things like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, drawer pulls, remote controls and phones. These surfaces come in contact with a lot of germs that can easily be transmitted to other people when they’re not cleaned properly. Be sure to clean these surfaces regularly using a disinfectant or cleaning solution that is designed to kill germs and prevent the spread of illness.

Change your air filter –

Changing your air filter on a regular basis will help keep dust and other particles from circulating through the air in your home. This can help reduce exposure to allergens that can make it harder for your family to breathe during winter months. If you use a HEPA filter, it can also help prevent the spread of pathogens throughout your home.

Pay special attention to the bathroom –

The bathroom tends to be one of the dirtiest rooms in your home, as it is where you and your family tend to get most dirty. Be sure to clean the toilet, sink, shower and tub regularly with hot soapy water to remove bacteria and germs that can cause illness. Pay special attention to handles, faucets, light switches and doorknobs.

Sanitize remotes and phones –

In addition to cleaning surfaces like countertops and doorknobs on a regular basis, be sure to disinfect remote controls and cell phones as well. These items can come in contact with a lot of germs from other people but are often overlooked in cleaning routines.

Wash kid’s toys –

Toys can quickly accumulate germs if they’re not cleaned on a regular basis, especially when children play with them frequently outside of the home in places like daycares. Washing kids’ toys in hot, soapy water can help get rid of dirt and germs that be easily spread to other family members.

Mop frequently with hot water and cleaning solution –

Mopping is another important cleaning task during peak germ season, as it helps keep floors clean and free from bacteria that could otherwise be tracked indoors. Be sure to use a cleaning solution with disinfectant properties to kill off any lingering germs on your floors. Extra tip: take shoes off at the door to avoid tracking germs inside.

Avoid items like sponges and dish towels –

Finally, one of the best ways to prevent the spread of winter illness is by avoiding items like sponges and dish towels in your cleaning routine. These items tend to collect lots of germs that can easily spread when you or someone in your family touches them.

In conclusion, cleaning is an important part of staying healthy during winter months. By following these tips and practicing good personal cleaning habits like washing your hands frequently, you can help prevent the spread of germs that can make you or your loved ones sick. Follow these handy cleaning tips and keep your family healthy all winter long!