Germ-free living: Expert tips for a healthier home

Keeping your home clean is essential for maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of illnesses. From bedroom sheets to bathroom sinks, germs can hide in unexpected places. Follow these expert tips to sanitize your living space effectively:
1. Banish bedroom germs
Wash your bed linens weekly in hot water to eliminate bacteria. Separate soiled items, such as stained clothes, from sheets during laundry. Avoid food in the bedroom to prevent mold and bacteria from thriving.
2. Family room sanitation
Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like remotes, video controllers, and coffee tables with disinfectant wipes. Use a damp microfiber cloth for your flat-screen TV and vacuum spills promptly to keep bacteria out of carpets and furniture.
3. Clean knobs and railings
Frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, railings, and light switches are hotspots for germs. Wipe them down weekly—or more often if someone is sick—with disinfectant wipes to combat viruses like COVID-19 and the flu.
4. Office hygiene
Computer keyboards and desks harbor germs, especially if you eat while working. Shake out debris, vacuum keyboards, and disinfect surfaces. Consider using a washable keyboard skin for added protection.
5. Kids’ room disinfection
Children's rooms can be breeding grounds for bacteria. Clean surfaces weekly with disinfectant sprays. Pay special attention to baby cribs, diaper-changing stations, and toys. Let disinfectant sit for 30 seconds before wiping clean.
6. Sanitize kitchen sinks
The kitchen sink harbors more bacteria than the bathroom. Scrub it daily with a disinfecting cleanser, and microwave wet sponges for two minutes to kill lurking germs.
7. Countertop maintenance
After food preparation, wash kitchen counters with hot soapy water and sanitize with a bleach solution (½ cup bleach per gallon of water). Avoid placing non-kitchen items like purses and phones on counters.
8. Refrigerator care
Clean fridge walls and shelves every few months using hot soapy water or a vinegar solution. Promptly wipe spills to prevent bacterial growth and odors.
9. Bathroom cleaning
An all-purpose cleaner made with dish soap, ammonia, and warm water can clean tubs, sinks, and floors. Baking soda removes stubborn stains. Use a squeegee after showers to prevent mold.
10. Toilet hygiene
Flush with the lid down to reduce germ spread. Clean the toilet bowl weekly and sanitize the lid and seat using an all-purpose cleaner.
11. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
For daily cleaning, mix one part white vinegar with nine parts water for a safe and effective "green" cleaner. It’s child- and pet-friendly.
12. Hallways and carpets
Leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking outdoor bacteria inside. Vacuum carpets and mop floors weekly to maintain a clean home.

By implementing these practices, you can ensure your home remains a safe and healthy haven.