These are indeed tense times. Novel coronavirus or COVID-19 is all over the news and on everyone’s mind. Without feeding further into the hysteria, I do think it is important we acknowledge this collective consciousness and all work hard to keep our homes clean and contagion-free. After all, most of us spend more than 90% of our time indoors. Our health is influenced by everything in our interior environments!
This week’s blog identifies 7 of my favorite tips for maintaining a squeaky-clean home, 365 days a year:
Distinguish between Cleaning and Disinfecting: Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. Disinfecting, on the other hand, refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning it, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. Keep surfaces clean to make regular disinfecting simple and effective.
Use EPA Approved Products and Wash Hands Regularly: While I’m usually a fan of natural products and disinfectants like lemon juice, white vinegar and baking soda, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is arming consumers with a list of disinfectants that people should use to protect themselves from the novel coronavirus. Have antimicrobial hand wash by every sink with plenty of paper towels to encourage regular hand washing.
Pay Attention to High-Traffic Regions of the Home: Clean and disinfect high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas: tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, screens on cellphones/tablets and computers, handles, desks, toilets and sinks all require special attention.
Send in the Slipcovers: Slipcovers for sofas and chairs are a great choice for easy-to-clean upholstery. Keep things simple by ensuring they are machine-washable. If you’re having custom slipcovers made, be sure to select machine washable fabric and to have it washed before they are made.
Utilize Smart Storage Solutions: Storing things in clever ways will help keep everything out of the way and hidden when not in use. Work with an interior designer to maximize the potential for your unique space. This is particularly important in NYC or anywhere with apartments that are typically on the smaller side.
Let in Plenty of Fresh Air: From a Feng Shui perspective, windows are like portals for “chi” – that is, energy in the form of light and air. Both are powerful disinfectants. Bringing in more outdoor air in buildings with heating and ventilation systems helps to dilute airborne contaminants.
Stock Up on Essentials and Give Your Health a Boost: Use this as an opportunity to enhance your nutritional health and boost your immune system. A deep clean of your fridge and freezer is most certainly in order. Discard limp produce and expired foods to make room for healthy, long-life essentials. The idea here is to create a fresh pathway for strong, vibrant “chi” to flow and to nourish our bodies from the inside out.
You and your family will all benefit from an easy-to-clean home all year around, but especially during tough times like these. Be kind to yourself and each other. Stay safe, stay healthy.
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