Keeping Your Western New York Home Germ-Free

 

Even though the calendar says spring, our Western New York weather still feels like winter. When colder weather keeps everyone inside for extended periods, it’s especially crucial to keep your home germ-free. These tips can help ensure you and your crew stay healthy all year long.

 

Go for Mini Cleaning Sessions

 

A little bit of cleaning every day can go a long way toward achieving a germ-free home. Instead of cleaning the whole house in one fell swoop, or waiting until dirt and dust accumulate, clean a set area every day. This changes up your game from being on the defense for removing existing bacteria to going on the offense and stopping it from developing in the first place.

 

Clean Drapes and Ceiling Fans

 

Ceiling fans and drapery are often ignored, but they can be veritable havens for dust and germs you may not even see. Vacuum or wash your curtains regularly. Use a duster or small vacuum to get the dust and grime off ceiling fans.

 

Use Exhaust Fans

 

Germs, bacteria and mold are fond of areas that retain high levels of moisture. Exhaust fans strategically placed in high-moisture zones throughout your Western New York home can reduce the humidity and moisture, thereby reducing the buildup and spread of mold and bacteria.

 

Wash Bedding

 

Hot water is the key to getting dust mites out of sheets, blankets, mattress covers and other bedding items. Wash all bedding items regularly in hot water; do the same with your towels.

 

Change Filters

It can be easy to forget about the lineup of filters throughout your Buffalo area home that require changing. Filters in your air conditioner, furnace, vacuum and other appliances need to be frequently changed. This helps to ensure you’re actually cleansing and purifying your house instead of bombarding it with more germs and dust.

 

Tend to Your Sponge

 

Sponges are veritable breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, and rinsing the sponge doesn’t get rid of them all. Disinfect your sponge by running it through the dishwasher or popping it in the microwave for 60 seconds. Regularly replacing sponges can also help cut down on germs and bacteria.

 

Check Your Dishwasher

 

Water temperature has to hit at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit to kill off bacteria. Most dishwashers run at temperatures between 130 and 170 degrees. Adjust your dishwasher temperature if needed to reach a minimum of 145.

 

Quick Bathroom Tips

 

The bathroom is a notorious germ hotpot, but a few easy tips can help keep it more hygienic.

 

• Put the toilet seat down, putting it down before you flush and keeping it down when not in use
• Store your toothbrush in a drawer, container or cabinet, instead of out in the open where it can pick up germs
• Shake your shower curtain after showering, which removes water and helps prevent excess moisture from accumulating in the bathroom

 

While you can’t control the weather outside, you can control the cleanliness levels inside. As a leading Buffalo area home inspection company, we’ve seen the big difference these small tips can make for creating a germ-free home.