How to Properly Disinfect the Dirtiest Areas in Your Home
The germiest areas of your home are the ones you least expect. While everyone thinks the bathroom is the worst, there are many nooks, crannies and surfaces throughout the home that get overlooked because they are too hard to clean or people forget about the bacteria buildup.
In this age of heightened concern surrounding illness, your home should be a safe space. Yet our homes can be the perfect place for germs that can spread illness if you don’t frequently clean. These are the germiest places in the house you might not suspect and how to properly clean them.
Grout
While tiles can look beautiful, they also are prone to not getting cleaned. Even if you frequently wash your tiles, the grout may not be fully sanitized because it is lower than the tile itself. You may notice grime and dust in between the tiles which, over time, can make the grout dark. While cleaning grout is a time-consuming task, it is worth it to prevent mold buildup and keep your tile work looking like new.
How to clean: Purchase a brush designed for cleaning grout. Don’t want to spend the money? An old toothbrush can also work. Water will work for a basic cleaning, but we suggest going one step further and combining a few tablespoons of baking soda with hydrogen peroxide. Spread the mixture — it will be pasty — on the grout and let it sit for 10 minutes then scrub. If you haven’t cleaned your grout in a long time, you may notice it goes from dark to white.
Air vents
If you suffer from asthma or allergies, your air vents can aggravate your condition. An HVAC system in your home comes with an air filter that needs to be replaced every so often, but the vents throughout the home also need to be cleaned.
How to clean: This is a simpler job. Use a vacuum to suck the dust and dirt from within the vents. Using the long hose can work wonders for getting a perfect clean.
Showerhead
It may seem strange to wash your showerhead. After all, that’s where you get clean. However, over time the holes in the showerhead can be clogged with mineral deposits, soap scum and even mold.
How to clean: Purchase a foam cleaner specifically made for the shower. These foam cleaners fight soap scum, lime scale and mold. Spray the showerhead, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wipe clean and let water flow. If your showerhead is removable, you can soak it in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and hot water for a few hours.
Reusable grocery bags
Most people want to be environmentally conscious, but many aren’t conscious that they need to wash their reusable bags. These bags carry poultry, vegetables and other food items that, over time, can cause bacteria buildup. If you go grocery shopping frequently, you should wash the bags frequently.
How to clean: Most reusable plastic bags are machine-washable. If you have a canvas bag, you can put it in the washing machine. Just make sure to line dry. Always make sure that your reusable bags are completely dry before taking them to the grocery store. Damp bags can lead to mold and mildew, which you don’t want on your food.
Kitchen sponge
It’s been shown that the kitchen is the dirtiest area in your home. One of the worst areas of the kitchen is your sponge. Despite being used with soap, the sponge can still harbor bacteria including salmonella and E. coli. While you can clean your sponge, it’s recommended to replace your sponge once a month.
How to clean: The simplest way is to put your sponge in the microwave on high for one minute (do not do this with metallic sponges). You can also put it in the dishwasher when doing a load of dishes.
Midwest Express Clinic wants to protect you and your family. By washing these areas, your home will feel and look cleaner, helping you feel safer. Even with your house spotless, you may still get sick from being outside, living your life. Midwest Express Clinic is here to help. Check in online at your closest location to see a provider today.
