Spring Cleaning for Better Health
Ridding the Home of Dust and Germs Leads to Easier Breathing
Feb 24, 2009
Prepare for the upcoming spring season by clearing your home of trapped dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens. Taking the time to rid your home of dust and germs that have found a home during winter will help you enjoy a healthier spring and summer.
Germs and dust become trapped in homes year-round. They find their way into bedrooms, under sofa pillows, and in window treatments. Dust mites and germs thrive in mattresses, closets, and carpets. The more energy-efficient a house, the more likely it is to trap dust, allergens, and harmful bacteria where it can cause health problems.
During winter, most people keep their doors and windows tightly closed and sealed. When the heating system is activated, it moves dust and germs throughout the home by pulling them towards the heating system. As filters become clogged with dust and various particles, it’s harder for dust to escape and it remains in the house. It’s also harder for the filters to help clean the air when they are inundated with dust.
In spring, you can take proactive steps to improve your health and clean your house at the same time. Consider these tips as you prepare for spring and the beautiful weather ahead.
Replace Air Filters
Air conditioning and furnace filters are designed to trap dust and other particles from the air as they are pulled into the heating system. The circulation and flow of air in and out of the heating system naturally results in lots of dust being pulled into the system. It’s important to keep air filters clean in winter and in all other seasons of the year. Start spring with a new, clean air filter and change it often to keep dust particles from recirculating into the home.
Clean Carpets and Floors
Carpets are a natural place for dust and germs to settle. They find a cozy home in the tiny fibers of carpet and rugs. When spring arrives, throw open the doors and windows and give carpets and floors a good cleaning. Don’t just vacuum and move dust around – wash and clean carpets and floors thoroughly to remove as much dust and debris as possible.
Wipe the Wood
Baseboards, window sills, chair rails, cabinets, stair rails, and other wood surfaces can harbor many germs and dust particles. Although you clean your house in winter, there is nothing like a good spring cleaning to clear wood surfaces. A damp towel is all that is needed to wipe down surfaces. There are specially made wood cleaners that can also be used if desired.
Turn the Mattress
Mattresses are notorious for harboring dust mites and other particles. Dust and clean mattresses thoroughly in spring. Turn mattresses and clean both sides and wipe them down with a damp cloth. Removing dust mites and particles will lead to healthier sleep. Don’t neglect the bedding either. Wash all bedding thoroughly before returning it to the bed.
Shine the Electronics
Electronics are well-known for attracting and holding dust. A well-insulated house with tight-fitting windows and doors is great in winter, but the great insulation is also a dust trap. In winter, it’s easy to forget how dusty electronics become. But as spring approaches and the air is fresh and clean, don’t forget to clean those electronics – and use caution. Wipe TVs, stereos, DVD players, computers, and other electronics with a clean cloth. Only use specially prepared cleaners that are safe for electronics.
Wash the Washer
Believe it or not, your laundry room is one place where dust, dirt, and germs can hide. When preparing for spring, don’t forget to wipe down the washer and dryer. Vacuum and clean behind them and wipe down doors and walls in the laundry room. Many people forget about the laundry room, but that’s a big mistake since your clothing, linens, and other household items pass through this room frequently.
Cleaning your house in springtime is not only important for your home to look clean and fresh. It’s also a good way to help manage and avoid allergies and other problems associated with dust and germs. Creating a plan to tackle each area of the house and keeping it clean and dust-free throughout the year will result in cleaner breathing and better health for the entire family.
Take advantage of spring weather to clean up the house and breathe easier.
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