The threat of germs and bacteria may be ever present, especially when we’re out and about and come in to contact with areas and surfaces that have been touched by many people, but what about in our own homes? Can germs and bacteria be prevalent there, and if so, should we try to eliminate them all, or just go for damage limitation?
What germs and bacteria might be present in our homes?
Bacteria such as E-Coli, Salmonella and Rhinovirus are just a few of the many germs and bacteria that could be present in our homes. Of course, any bacteria that you may come in to contact with outside of your home, can be transferred inside your home if you don’t wash your hands thoroughly or take precautions when coughing or sneezing.
Should we try to eliminate all germs and bacteria within our homes?
There can be no doubt that some bacteria can be deadly if ingested or inhaled, and following good handwashing and general hygiene practices can help to keep these at bay. But, there may also be risks involved with being too clean.
Can your home be too clean?
Research has shown that over use of antibacterial hand sanitizers and home cleaning products containing chemicals, may be the cause behind childhood allergies and breathing illnesses such as asthma, that seem to plague todays young generation.
Between 1997 and 2007, the US saw nearly a 20% rise in food allergies among children, while the levels of allergies and illnesses such as asthma, decreased among those kids living in environments where they are routinely exposed to more dirt, germs and microbes, such as farms. The evidence certainly seems to suggest that homes can be too clean, and that not trying to eliminate all germs and bacteria in your home, can help your young family members to grow up healthy and strong. With allergies and other illnesses affecting adults too, there is strong evidence to show that they would also benefit from living in environments that are not wholly sterile.
So, how should we clean our homes?
Scientists studying the effects of germs and bacteria within homes, have concluded that the best way to keep your home clean without going overboard, is to focus your cleaning efforts on areas that you know are prone to more deadly strains of bacteria, such as those found within bathrooms and kitchens. These are the main rooms within homes that could potentially harbour the most germs, with microbes from poop and raw meat being the ones that can do you real harm, so keeping them clean is naturally recommended.
In the bathroom, light switches, the toilet seat and flush, faucets and basins should be kept as clean as possible, and in the kitchen, you should focus upon scrubbing chopping boards and anything that comes in to contact with raw meat or poultry.
If you want to keep your bacteria hotspots hygienically clean but don’t have the time to do it yourself, why not try using a professional cleaning company? You will find that most have flexible plans to suit your time and budget limitations, and many of those who try their services, have never looked back