The Surprising Benefits Of A Clean Home - Why Tidying Up Is Worth Your Time
Table Of Contents
We’ve all had that feeling.
You know, the one when you get when you’ve had a crazy day at the office and come home to an even crazier mess at home. If you could, you’d gladly throw it all away and start over, but since that really isn’t an option, you do the next best thing: dedicate some time on the weekend to tidying it.
At first, it seems like mission impossible, but once you start cleaning the kitchen counters, mopping the floors, and decluttering the living room, the benefits of a clean home kick in and you start feeling super energized. As the dirt and disorder vanish, your mood and focus both improve. By the time you’re done, well, Captain Marvel has nothing on you!
This sense of happiness and accomplishment isn’t all in your head. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that engaging in physical activity through cleaning, along with the positive outcome of a cleaner home, can contribute to reducing stress, alleviating feelings of anxiety, and relieving depressive symptoms.
It doesn’t stop there, though. Check out these other benefits of a clean home:
Cleaning can also be a form of exercise, leading to improved cardiovascular health and increased endorphins.
Regular cleaning improves air quality, reduces allergies, and helps prevent illness.
A clean home is a GREAT place to socialize with friends (and an even better one to live in!)
You can save money on repair bills, watch your property values go up, and make some extra cash selling your clutter.
Cleaner homes are more energy-efficient, so you lower your carbon footprint.
Taking the time to clean and maintain a tidy living home can have a significant positive impact on your overall well-being. Now let’s take a closer look at the specifics, show you how to overcome common challenges, and answer your questions about house cleaning in general.
Physical Benefits of a Clean Home
Cleaning does a lot more than eliminate clutter and promote a peaceful environment: it can also have significant physical benefits. From reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory problems to improving cardiovascular health, the benefits of a clean home extend far beyond just aesthetic appeal.
Improves Air Quality
Every time you clean, you improve air quality by reducing the amount of dust, dirt, and other airborne particles that can accumulate over time. These particles can lead to respiratory problems and allergies as well as worsen existing conditions like asthma. By routinely cleaning all surfaces, vacuuming carpets and rugs, and changing air filters, you can get rid of this potentially harmful buildup and create a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Keeping your house clean also helps reduce the amount of moisture in the air. By wiping surfaces and clearing away excess water, you decrease the risk of mould growth and improve indoor air quality.
Reduces Allergies
You’ll really appreciate this one when springtime (AKA allergy season) rolls around!
If you’re one of those allergy sufferers, you’ll be happy to know that by cleaning and dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets and rugs, and washing bedding on a regular basis, you can get rid of these pesky irritants and reduce your risk of experiencing uncomfortable allergy symptoms.
Decluttering is another way to keep allergies under control. By getting rid of excess stuff, you’ll make it easier to clean those areas where allergens like to accumulate. Clutter can trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens, so by reducing it, you’ll have fewer surfaces for these pesky irritants to cling to. Plus, when you clear out the clutter, it’ll be easier to regularly dust and clean your home. If you’ve got piles of stuff all over the floor, it can be tough to vacuum or mop properly, and that can also contribute to allergen build-up. So, if you want to breathe easier and keep allergies at bay, start sorting and tossing!
Helps Prevent the Spread of Germs and Illness
Cleaning plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of germs and illnesses. Bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces for hours or even days- if you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your face or mouth, get ready for a sick day (or two). By regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and light switches, you can significantly reduce the number of germs on these surfaces and stop the spread of illnesses.
But that’s not all. It’s also important to disinfect frequently touched objects like phones, keyboards, and remote controls. By cleaning and disinfecting these objects, you can further reduce the risk of spreading germs. (Your boss will thank you!)
Keeps You in Shape!
This is one of the fun benefits of a clean home!
Engaging in physical activity while cleaning can help burn calories and strengthen your muscles. Activities such as vacuuming, mopping, and scrubbing require physical effort and can even contribute to your daily cardio exercise, which can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Since cleaning involves movements like bending, lifting, and stretching, it can help strengthen and tone your muscles, especially in your arms, legs, and core. When you make cleaning a regular habit, it can also help improve your flexibility, balance, and coordination. You might just pass on the gym membership after a while!
Mental Health Benefits of a Clean Home
The benefits of a clean home extend far beyond just aesthetic appeal. From reducing stress and anxiety to promoting better sleep and productivity, a clean home can help improve your mental well-being. So, why not start small and declutter your living space? You’ll be surprised at how much more relaxed and in control you’ll feel once your home is clean and organized.
There’s a Connection Between Clutter and Stress!
Cluttered living spaces can lead to feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and lack of control. And clutter can come in many forms – from physical items like clothes, books, and papers to mental clutter like unfinished tasks and responsibilities.
When your home is cluttered, it can be challenging to find what you need, focus on important tasks, and maintain a sense of order. This can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety, which can contribute to a range of physical and mental health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression. And to make matters worse, clutter can be a source of visual distraction, making it difficult to relax and unwind in your own home.
By getting rid of unnecessary items and organizing your belongings, you can reduce stress and create a more peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and well-being. So why not take some time to declutter your home today? You’ll be amazed at how much more relaxed and in control you’ll feel once all that stuff is gone.
Cleaning Feels GREAT!
Cleaning has numerous benefits for our mental and emotional well-being, including boosting self-esteem and providing a sense of accomplishment. Here’s why:
When we clean, we can see immediate progress, bringing us a sense of satisfaction and pride. This visible progress can help us feel more in control of our environment, which is especially important for those who feel overwhelmed by their surroundings.
Taking care of our living space can give us a sense of responsibility and show ourselves and others that we can care for ourselves and our surroundings.
Completing even small cleaning tasks is a tangible achievement that can boost our confidence and make us feel more capable.
When we clean, we may receive positive reinforcement from others, such as gratitude from family or roommates, which can further enhance our sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.
There you have it- the benefits of a clean home extend far beyond just a tidy living space, but can also improve our mental and emotional well-being.
Focus and Productivity Improve
When your home is clean, you’ll soon see the difference in your ability to focus as well as your productivity. For instance:
A clean and tidy environment can help reduce distractions and create a peaceful environment that is conducive to work. If you work remotely, this is arguably one of the biggest benefits of a clean home.
When your surroundings are organized, you’re less likely to be distracted by unnecessary items or clutter, which can significantly enhance your productivity.
A clean environment can increase motivation, as you feel more energized and motivated to work in a clean and organized workspace.
By decluttering your living spaces, you can minimize visual distractions and create a serene and calming atmosphere, which can help you stay focused and productive throughout the day. When you work and have a family, this type of positive energy is a must-have!
Social Benefits of a Clean Home
Have you ever noticed how good it feels to step into a clean home? It’s not just about the satisfaction of knowing everything is in its place- a clean and tidy home can actually have social benefits too. Whether it’s impressing guests or simply making your family more comfortable, a clean home can help foster stronger relationships. Plus, let’s be real- no one wants to spend time in a cluttered or dirty space! That said, let’s take a look at the social benefits of a clean home.
Your Guests Will Want to Come Back- Again and Again!
When you have guests over, a beautifully clean home can make all the difference in creating a welcoming environment. After all, the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, living room, and other communal spaces are among the first things that guests notice when they arrive. When everything looks tidy and organized, they’ll relax and enjoy their visit.
Here are some more reasons why a clean home will score brownie points with visitors:
When your house is clean, it promotes good hygiene and prevents the spread of germs. This is especially important if you have guests who are vulnerable to illness.
When your home is free of clutter and excess items, guests can move around more freely and easily. You really don’t want them tripping over that magazine pile that should have been ditched ages ago.
A well-maintained living space can create a sense of warmth and hospitality, making your guests feel welcome and appreciated.
Overall, a clean home can create a comfortable and inviting environment that your guests will appreciate. You’ll be the talk of the neighbourhood- but in a good way!
Everyone Will Love Living There!
Tidying up can have a positive impact on your relationships with family members and roommates, which is one of the greatest benefits of a clean home. No more fumbling about and complaining (at least not for reasons related to tidiness)!
Here’s why:
When everyone pitches in to keep the space clean and organized, it shows that you respect the shared space and care about each other’s needs. It’s like being part of a team that’s working towards a common goal.
A cluttered and dirty home can create stress and tension, which can put a strain on relationships. But when your living space is clean and tidy, it can reduce stress levels and create a more positive atmosphere. It’s much more inviting to come home to a calming and pleasant space.
When everything has a place and the home is free of clutter, it’s easier to find things and move around. As you can imagine, this can help reduce a LOT of frustration.
Working together to maintain a clean home can also create an opportunity for better communication between new roommates. You can discuss ways to improve the living space and make it more comfortable for everyone. It’s a great way to bond and get to know each other better!
Tidy Home = The Best Parties!
Now let’s talk about the benefits of a clean home when hosting parties or events. Trust us, it’s not just about impressing your guests with a pristine space either.
A clean home sets the tone for a successful event. Think about it- when you walk into a clean and tidy space, don’t you feel more at ease? Your guests will feel the same way and be encouraged to stay longer and enjoy themselves more. A positive atmosphere is crucial when hosting an event; a clean home can create just that.
With everything organized and in its place, you won’t have to worry about misplaced items or clutter, which can cause stress and anxiety. You’ll have an easier time setting up for the event and keeping track of everything.
Keeping your home clean and organized can help you plan your event more effectively. When you have a tidy home, you’ll have a better idea of how much space you have available, which can help you plan the seating arrangements, decorations, and other details of the event.
Last but not least, a clean and tidy home can leave a lasting impression on your guests. When they leave, they’ll remember how welcome and comfortable they felt. If you’re new to the neighbourhood, this can really help you arrive!
Financial Benefits of a Clean Home
Have you ever considered that keeping your home clean and tidy could have a positive impact on your finances? Yes, you heard that right! A clean home can do more than just make you feel good and impress your guests. It can also save you money in ways you might not have considered before.
Repair Bills Go Down
Did you know that regular cleaning can actually help prevent costly repairs and maintenance? It’s true: taking the time to keep your home clean and tidy can save you money in the long run, making it another one of the biggest benefits of a clean home. Here’s how:
When dust and debris build up on your appliances, electronics, and even HVAC components, it can cause them to overheat and wear out faster. But when you regularly clean and dust everything, you can keep them running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Keeping your home clean can help prevent mould and mildew growth. Not only can mould cause serious health problems, it can also damage your home’s structure if left untreated. But when you regularly clean and ventilate everything, you can avoid costly mould remediation services.
Regular cleaning can help you identify potential maintenance issues before they turn into major problems. For example, if you regularly clean your gutters, you can spot any clogs or damage early on and prevent water damage to your home’s foundation or roof.
The message is clear: a little bit of effort now can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Property Values Go Up!
A clean and well-maintained home can make a huge difference when it comes to selling your home or getting it appraised. When potential buyers or appraisers see a property that is clean and well-maintained, it gives them the impression that the home has been looked after and that the current owners have taken pride in their property. This can lead to a higher appraisal or offer.
A clean home can also make it easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves living in the space. When the rooms are cluttered or dirty, it can be difficult for buyers to see past the mess and envision themselves living there. But when everything is clean and organized, it’s easier for buyers to picture themselves living there and making the space their own.
Lastly, when a home is clean and well-maintained, it can show off its unique architectural features, such as crown moulding or built-in shelving. This can make the home more appealing to potential buyers and increase its overall value.
You Could Make Some Extra Cash!
Selling unwanted items can be a great way to make some extra income, and decluttering your home is the perfect way to identify things you no longer need or use.
When you start going through your belongings, you might be surprised by how many items you come across that you no longer need or want. Maybe you have some old clothes that no longer fit or some electronics that you’ve upgraded. Instead of letting these items take up space in your home, why not sell them?
There are plenty of online platforms, such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist, where you can sell your unwanted items. You can also have a garage sale or take your items to a consignment shop. By selling these items, you can not only clear up some space in your home, but you can also make some extra money.
Environmental Benefits of a Clean Home
From reducing energy usage to minimizing waste, there are many environmental benefits of a clean home. If you’re curious about how your home can be eco-friendly and want to do your part in reducing your carbon footprint, keep reading!
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Many household cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can pollute waterways and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The good news is that there’s a solution: eco-friendly cleaning products!
These products, which are made with natural, biodegradable ingredients, often come in recyclable or compostable packaging, which reduces waste and supports sustainable practices. When you use them, you’re not only reducing your own exposure to harmful chemicals- you’re also contributing to a healthier planet.
Eco-friendly cleaning products are often just as effective as their chemical-laden counterparts, so you don’t have to sacrifice cleanliness for the sake of the environment. In fact, many of these products have a pleasant scent and leave your home smelling fresh and clean.
Own Less, Waste Less
Have you ever looked around your home and felt overwhelmed by the amount of stuff you have? Trust me, we’ve all been there! But have you ever thought about how decluttering can actually benefit the environment?
When we declutter our homes, we often end up with a pile of items that we no longer need or want. But instead of just throwing them away, why not sell or donate them? This way, your unwanted items can find new homes and be put to good use, rather than ending up in a landfill.
Decluttering can also lead to more mindful consumption habits. By taking a step back and evaluating what we truly need and use, we can make more conscious decisions regarding future purchases. Do we really need that extra pair of shoes or that new kitchen gadget? Probably not. By being more intentional with our consumption, we can reduce waste and minimize our impact on the environment.
The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by your belongings, try decluttering. Not only will it make your home feel more spacious and organized, but it can also lead to more mindful consumption habits and less waste. It’s a simple way to make a positive impact on the environment and your mental well-being. When you think about it, the benefits of a clean home are practically unlimited!
Even the Squirrels Benefit!
When we use eco-friendly cleaning products and reduce waste through decluttering, we are also helping to protect the wildlife and environment outside of our homes.
Harmful chemicals in cleaning products can seep into our waterways and pollute our ecosystems, harming wildlife and their habitats. By using natural, biodegradable cleaning products, we can help keep our waterways clean and protect the creatures that live in them.
When we throw things away, they often end up in landfills where they can take years to decompose. This contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and can harm wildlife. By reducing our waste through decluttering and recycling, we are doing our part to minimize our impact on the environment and protect the creatures that call it home.
So, the next time you’re cleaning your home or decluttering, remember that your actions can have a positive impact on the environment outside of your home as well. By using eco-friendly products and reducing your waste, you are doing your part to protect wildlife and preserve the environment. Small actions can lead to big changes!
Overcoming Cleaning Challenges
Let’s be honest – cleaning is not always the most enjoyable activity. In fact, it can be downright challenging at times. Whether it’s tackling a particularly messy room or simply finding the motivation to get started, cleaning can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task. That said, let’s take a closer look at some of the most common cleaning challenges and how to overcome them.
Moving Past These Challenges
So what’s holding you back from tackling all that mess? Here are some common cleaning challenges and practical tips for overcoming them:
Lack of Motivation: If this is your biggest roadblock to enjoying the benefits of a clean home, set a cleaning schedule that works for you. Whether it’s once a week or a few minutes every day, having a plan in place can help keep you motivated. You can also enlist the help of a friend or family member to make cleaning more enjoyable.
Lack of Time: Pressed for time? Make use of spare moments by multitasking. For example, while you wait for dinner to cook, you can wipe down the counters or tidy up the living room. You can also consider breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces that can be completed in a short amount of time.
Dealing With Stubborn Stains: If you’re tired of scrubbing and not getting anywhere, research the best cleaning products and techniques for the specific type of stain you’re dealing with. Don’t be afraid to try multiple methods or products until you find what works best for you.
Not Knowing How to Clean Certain Materials or Surfaces: Do some research or ask a professional for advice on the best cleaning techniques for specific materials or surfaces. That way, you’ll have a sense of direction and won’t make mistakes that could result in surface damage.
There’s Too Much To Do: Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be afraid to ask for help! You can make cleaning a fun activity by enlisting the help of family or friends. Consider assigning tasks or making a game out of it with the kids to make cleaning more enjoyable.
Remember, cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right mindset and some helpful strategies in place, you can overcome common cleaning challenges and enjoy the benefits of a clean home.
Why Not Hire a Professional Cleaning Company?
Keeping a clean and organized home can be a daunting task, especially for those with busy schedules or large households. But as you’ve seen, maintaining a clean and healthy living environment is important for both our physical and mental well-being. What can you do when there’s so much to do but too little time? That’s where professional house cleaning services come in!
Hiring a professional cleaning service can save you time and energy, allowing you to focus on other important tasks or activities. Professional cleaners are trained to work efficiently and effectively and can complete cleaning tasks in a fraction of the time it might take you to do it yourself. Other benefits include:
- Expertise: Professional cleaners have the knowledge and experience to clean even the toughest of messes and stains. They use specialized cleaning equipment and techniques to ensure that your home is cleaned thoroughly and effectively.
Customized Cleaning Plans: The best cleaning companies can create customized cleaning plans to fit your specific needs and preferences. You can choose the frequency of the cleaning service and the specific areas of your home that need to be cleaned.
Peace of Mind: Hiring a professional cleaning service can provide peace of mind, knowing that your home is being cleaned by trained professionals who have been screened and vetted. You can trust that your rooms will be cleaned to a high standard and that you will enjoy the benefits of a clean home.
Overall, seeking professional cleaning services can provide numerous benefits and help ensure that your home is cleaned to a high standard, making it a great investment in the health and comfort of your family.
What’s the Difference Between Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting?
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to distinct processes that serve different purposes in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Whether you’re trying to keep your home or workplace free of germs and bacteria, understanding the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting is crucial.
What is Sanitizing?
Sanitizing is the process of reducing the number of germs and bacteria on a surface to a safe level. It works by using a specific concentration of a chemical agent effective against bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. Examples include using a bleach solution to clean kitchen counters and other surfaces where food is prepared.
What is Disinfecting?
Disinfecting is the process of using chemicals or other methods to kill germs, bacteria, and viruses on surfaces. Disinfectants are often used in high-touch home areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and frequently used surfaces like doorknobs and light switches. When done correctly, disinfecting can help to keep the home safe and healthy for all occupants.
Why is Knowing the Difference Important?
Knowing when to sanitize vs. disinfect is important because the two methods serve different purposes. Sanitizing is typically used to reduce the number of germs on surfaces to a safe level while disinfecting is used to kill or inactivate all germs on a surface.
If you sanitize when disinfecting is necessary, you may not fully eliminate all harmful germs, putting yourself and others at risk of illness. On the other hand, if you disinfect a household surface when sanitizing is sufficient, you may be unnecessarily exposing yourself and the environment to harsh chemicals. It’s also important to consider the risks associated with using the wrong method. For example, using a disinfectant on a food-contact surface without properly rinsing it off can result in harmful chemicals contaminating your food. Overuse of disinfectants can also lead to the development of superbugs – germs that have become resistant to disinfectants and antibiotics. When you want to safely enjoy the benefits of a clean home, knowing which product to use and when is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Benefits of a Clean Home
What is the Best Way to Clean My Home?
The best way to clean your home will depend on several factors, such as the size of the property, the type of flooring and surfaces that need attention, and any specific cleaning needs you may have. However, there are a few general tips that can help make the cleaning process more effective and efficient:
Start With a Plan: Before you start, list the areas you want to clean and prioritize them based on importance. This can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t miss any important tasks.
Declutter First: It’s easier to clean when you don’t have clutter in the way. Before you start cleaning in earnest, take a few minutes to tidy up any cluttered areas.
Use the Right Cleaning Products: Different surfaces require different cleaning products. Be sure to use the appropriate cleaning solution for each surface to avoid damage.
Clean From Top to Bottom: Start with high surfaces like ceiling fans and work your way down to lower surfaces like floors. This way, any dust or debris that falls will be cleaned up last.
Don’t Forget the Details: It’s easy to focus on the larger surfaces, but don’t forget to clean the details like baseboards, window sills, and light switches.
Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, making it easier to clean in the future.
Ultimately, the best way to clean your home is to develop a cleaning routine that works for you and your lifestyle. If you find that you don’t have the time or energy to clean your home thoroughly, you may want to consider hiring a professional service to help you achieve the benefits of a clean home.
How Often Should I Clean My Home?
Cleaning frequency generally depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the number of occupants, and your personal preferences. However, here are some general guidelines on how often you should clean different areas of your home:
Daily: Certain tasks should be done on a daily basis to maintain a clean and healthy living environment. These tasks include making beds, washing dishes, wiping down kitchen countertops, and cleaning up spills and messes as they occur.
Weekly: You should dust and vacuum all areas of your home, including floors, furniture, and decor, on a weekly basis. You should also have a weekly schedule for cleaning the bathrooms.
Monthly: Once a month, you should deep clean certain areas of your home, such as the oven, refrigerator, and microwave. You should also clean windows and mirrors on a monthly basis unless they get dirty sooner..
Seasonally: You should tackle deep cleaning tasks like washing walls and baseboards, cleaning blinds, and cleaning carpets and upholstery a few times a year.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and you should adjust your cleaning routine based on your personal needs and preferences. For example, if you have pets or allergies, you may need to clean more frequently.
What Should I Do With Items I No Longer Need?
After cleaning your house, you may find items that you no longer need or want. Here are some options for what to do with them:
Donate: Consider donating gently used items to a local charity or thrift store. Clothes, furniture, and household items are often accepted and can benefit someone in need.
Sell: If you have items that are still in good condition, you could sell them online or at a garage sale. This can be a great way to earn some extra money and declutter at the same time.
Recycle: Check with your local recycling center to see what items can be recycled. Common items that can be recycled include paper, cardboard, plastics, and glass.
Dispose of Properly: If you have items that cannot be donated, sold, or recycled, you may need to dispose of them properly. Check with your local waste management facility to see what options are available.
Can Cleaning Really Improve My Mental Health?
Cleaning can definitely improve your mental health. Studies have shown that having a clean and organized home environment can have a positive impact on your mood, stress levels, and overall well-being, making it one of the greatest benefits of a clean home.
When your surroundings are cluttered and messy, it can be difficult to focus on anything else. Over time, you may feel overwhelmed and distracted by all of the disorder, which can lead to anxiety and depression. On the other hand, when your home is clean and tidy, you’re more likely to be relaxed, which can boost your mood and mental clarity.
Taking the time to clean your home and create a comfortable living space can be a way to prioritize your own well-being. So if you’re feeling stressed or anxious, try dedicating an afternoon or weekend to putting your house in order. It may seem like a small thing, but it can have a big impact on your mental health.
How Can I Make Cleaning More Fun and Enjoyable?
Let’s face it: despite all the benefits of a clean home, cleaning is not exactly the most exciting task. It can be tedious, time-consuming, and often feels like a chore that we just have to get through. But what if there was a way to make cleaning more fun? The good news is that there are plenty of ways to turn cleaning from a dreaded task into a more enjoyable experience.
Here are a few tips:
Create a Playlist: Put on some upbeat music and turn up the volume. Sing and dance as you clean, and you’ll be surprised how quickly the time passes. Soon you’ll have your own cleaning playlist on Spotify!
Gamify Your Cleaning: Set a timer for each task and try to beat the clock. Challenge yourself to see how much you can clean in a certain amount of time, or compete with a friend or family member to see who can clean the most in a set amount of time. Loser buys pizza!
Involve Others: Cleaning can be a social activity. Enlist the help of a friend or family member and clean together. You can chat, catch up, and have a great time making all the dirt and clutter go away.
Treat Yourself: Set a reward for yourself once you’ve finished cleaning. Whether it’s a piece of chocolate, a hot bath, or a favorite TV show, having something to look forward to can make cleaning feel more like a fun activity.
Instead of viewing cleaning as a chore, try to see it as a way to care for yourself and your living space. Give these tips a try and see if they help you enjoy cleaning more!
Does Bleach Sanitize or Disinfect?
Bleach can both sanitize and disinfect, depending on the concentration used and the length of time it is in contact with the surface being cleaned.
When diluted to a concentration of 1000-5000 parts per million (ppm) of chlorine bleach and left in contact with a surface for at least one minute, bleach can effectively kill most types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it a disinfectant.
When diluted to a concentration of 200-500 ppm of chlorine bleach and left in contact with a surface for at least 30 seconds, bleach can reduce the number of bacteria on the surface, making it a sanitizer.
It is important to follow the instructions on the bleach bottle and to use proper protective gear when handling bleach.
What Areas of the Home Need Sanitizing and Which Need Disinfecting?
Different areas of the home require different levels of cleaning depending on the level of germ exposure. Generally, high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and toilet handles need to be disinfected since they are frequently touched and have a higher risk of germ transmission. Surfaces that come into contact with food, such as cutting boards and kitchen counters, should also be disinfected.
Sanitizing is typically sufficient for areas with less exposure to germs, such as floors and walls. However, it is important to note that certain areas, such as bathrooms, may require both sanitizing and disinfecting depending on their use and level of contamination.
It’s essential to read the labels of cleaning products to understand what they are designed for and whether they are suitable for sanitizing or disinfecting. Additionally, it’s important to follow proper cleaning procedures and guidelines to ensure your home is as clean and safe as possible.
What is the Seven-Step Approach to Cleaning and Sanitizing?
The Seven-Step Approach to Cleaning and Sanitizing is a set of guidelines developed by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to ensure that food-contact surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. You can use a modified version to enjoy the benefits of a clean home.
The steps are as follows:
Rinse: Rinsing the surface with clean water after cleaning is essential to remove any soap or cleaning solution residue, which may lead to the growth of bacteria and germs. This step prepares the surface for the sanitizing process.
Clean: When applying the detergent or cleaning solution, make sure to follow the instructions on the label and allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time before scrubbing. Use a scrub brush or sponge to ensure that the cleaning solution penetrates any cracks or crevices where bacteria can thrive.
Rinse: Rinsing the surface with clean water after cleaning is essential to remove any soap or cleaning solution residue, which may lead to the growth of bacteria and germs. This step prepares the surface for the sanitizing process.
Sanitize: Use an appropriate sanitizing solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and application. Make sure to apply it evenly and thoroughly, and allow it to remain for the recommended amount of time.
Rinse Again: After sanitizing, rinse the surface with clean water to remove any residue.
Dry: Use a clean, dry cloth or allow the surface to air dry.
Verify: Use a test kit or other method to verify that the surface is free of harmful bacteria and pathogens.
Does a Clean Environment Make You Happier?
Yes, a clean environment can make you happier! Studies have shown that cluttered and messy environments can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm, while clean and organized spaces can have the opposite effect. Here are some ways that tidying up your home can make you happier:
Reduces Stress and Anxiety: A disorganized environment can create visual and mental chaos, making it harder to relax and feel calm. A clean and organized space, on the other hand, can reduce stress and anxiety by providing a sense of order and control.
Increases Productivity: When your environment is clean and tidy, you may feel more motivated and focused, leading to increased productivity and a sense of accomplishment.
Improves Sleep: A cluttered bedroom can be distracting and make it harder to relax and fall asleep. A tidy and organized bedroom, on the other hand, can promote relaxation and a better night’s sleep.
Boosts Self-Esteem: Living in a clean environment can boost your self-esteem and sense of pride in your home, which can have a positive impact on your overall mood and well-being.
Overall, a clean environment can contribute to a sense of calm, control, and well-being, which can lead to increased happiness and satisfaction in life.
Ready to Enjoy the Benefits of a Clean Home?
As you can see, a clean home has many surprising benefits that extend beyond just having a tidy living space. From reducing stress and improving mental health to saving money and benefiting the environment, cleaning and tidying up can have a positive impact on our overall well-being.
If you want to experience these benefits without lifting a finger, consider calling the friendly team at Three Little Birds. Our professional cleaning service can help you maintain a clean and healthy home, giving you more time to focus on the things that matter most to you. To get a no-obligation estimate or schedule your next house cleaning, call (905) 538-5046.