When cleaning up normally, we often miss major areas where bacteria and dust accumulate. We do not always realise that it is important not only how we clean but also what products and tools we use.
The tools themselves can create an environment for developing harmful micro-organisms like sponges or towels. Toxic chemicals at home may cause many allergies and illnesses, too.
Discover how you can keep your home clean and healthy and protect yourself.
1. Dusting
Dusting the hard-to-reach corners or places like the furniture surface may not be only a cause of sneezing but also of being toxic. According to research analysing various dust samples, it contains potentially dangerous poisonous substances that can cause cancer.
Toys and vinyl flooring contain phthalates and phenols in cleaning products. To minimise the risk of allergies and illnesses, clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner and wipe the dust off from blinds, ornaments, picture frames, lampshades, etc.
2. Aromatic sticks
The burning of aromatic sticks releases a large number of dust particles into the air, which can then fall into the respiratory tract. They also often contain traces of chemicals that can cause skin irritation.
3. Air fresheners
If you are obsessed with the craze in your home to smell good, this may be bad for your health. Aromatic candles, small-based diffusers, flavours or sprays often contain phthalates, chemicals that can lead to endocrine disorders. The safest way to scent your home is to refresh it with natural essential oils and flowers or just open the windows.
4. Plastic storage boxes in the kitchen
Plastic storage boxes often contain harmful chemicals such as BPA that fall into the food.
Polycarbonate plastics such as reusable water bottles, beverage glasses or disposable utensils also often contain harmful substances that may be the cause of cancer and diabetes. If the packaging says ”without bisphenol”, do not be fooled.
Many manufacturers have replaced BPA with another similar chemical from the same family. Moreover, plastics pollute our nature and the planet. Avoid plastic and choose glass.
5. Canned food
Cans can be inexpensive and practical, but some of them may be dangerous to your health. Some boxes contain BPA, which is transferred to the food if it is hot.
However, many companies claim that measures are being taken in the production process to avoid such issues, but if you are not sure, buy your food in a jar or frozen.
6. Pans and Pots
More and more studies have shown that cooking in Teflon pots and pans can harm health because hazardous substances are released during heating. Choose ceramic, cast iron or stainless steel appliances.
7. Bleach
Bleach makes the tiles in the bathroom shiny and removes the mould, but over time the grouting gets damaged, which makes it possible to create more mould.
Try to clean with alternative cleaning solutions which are safe for your health. In case the need arises and you must use bleach, you should wear protective gloves and a mask, try not to inhale the smell of the detergent and provide good ventilation in the room.
8. House Plants
Houseplants can do more than change your home and bring freshness. Based on many types of research, plants such as daisy, bamboo or aloe Vera can help remove harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide.
9. Carpet Deep Cleaning
Having a carpet or rug in the rooms can be a big issue if you do not take proper care.
A lot of dust and microscopic particles accumulate in the carpet daily and they cause many allergies. For instance, if you walk at home with shoes, it also becomes a place that gathers dust and dirt from the outside.
So regularly take the vacuum cleaner and clean the carpet. In fact, carpets and rugs should be professionally cleaned every 3-6 months, depending on the degree of usage. This way, they can be cleaned in-depth and sanitised from all the dirt, bacteria and unpleasant odours. The same applies to your upholstered items like sofas, curtains, mattresses or fabric blinds.
10. The Laundry
If you often use a softener, it may cause you some skin allergies. So, read carefully the labels of the preparations and avoid the perfumed ones. Clean the washing machine and the detergent container on a weekly basis to prevent the build-up of bacteria, mould, grime and unpleasant smell.
Micro-organisms live happily in unsuspected places around us. Even those who are supposed to help us in the unequal struggle with these beings. Examples of that are the antibacterial wet wipes, the moisture of which is beneficial for various types of moulds. The phone, keyboard, and computer mouse are objects we rarely think to clean, but a huge amount of micro-organisms are stacked on their surface. As well as the faucets, door handles and lamp switches are well-polluted and need to be sanitised on a daily basis.
Get your home or office completely sanitised and disinfected with the professional cleaning services Variety Cleaning offers in your area.