The surfaces in your bedrooms and living areas provide places for germs and bacteria to collect. You can reduce these with a few simple cleaning steps.
Cleaning to Reduce Dust and Germs
The following general cleaning guidelines can help you to keep a clean and healthy home and reduce dust and germs.
- Vacuum carpets and soft furnishings regularly to prevent dust and other debris building up. Thoroughly dry soft furnishings and carpets if they become wet (because of an accident or steam cleaning) to help prevent the growth of mould.
- Clean hard surface flooring regularly to remove dust, dirt, and visible mould growth. If you use a mop and bucket, clean and disinfect them after each use and store these dry with the mop head facing upwards.
- Damp-dust hard surfaces to minimise dust and dirt.
- Remove surface clutter to make cleaning easier. Place hard-to-clean items in cupboards, drawers, or display cabinets with glass doors.
- Do not use bleach products on carpets, wooden surfaces, or in confined unventilated spaces.
- Clean and disinfect floors, furniture, and other surfaces (like walls) promptly if there has been a spill of blood or body fluids such as vomit or faeces. Wipe up the spill, then clean and disinfect the surface. Carpets and furniture may need to be steam cleaned.
- Clean and disinfect hand-contact surfaces such as television remote controls, light switches and telephones, especially if someone is sick with a cold or flu.
- Always remember to wash your hands after cleaning.
