Why Extra Cleaning and Sanitization Are Crucial as Cold Weather Approaches

As the temperatures begin to drop and the cozy season sets in, our homes become a refuge from the cold. However, along with the chilly weather comes an increased risk of illness, with colds, the flu, and other viruses spreading more easily. Cold weather often forces people to spend more time indoors in enclosed spaces, creating a perfect environment for germs and bacteria to thrive. This makes extra cleaning and sanitization not just a good practice, but an essential one for maintaining a healthy home.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why cold weather increases the spread of germs, the areas in your home that require extra attention, and how additional cleaning and sanitization can help keep your family safe and healthy during the colder months.

Why Germs Spread More Easily in Cold Weather

Several factors contribute to the increased spread of germs and illnesses during the colder months:

- More Time Indoors

As the weather gets colder, people naturally spend more time inside, often in close quarters. Whether at home, work, or school, more frequent indoor interaction leads to a higher chance of germs being passed from person to person.

- Dry Air

Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, leading to lower humidity levels indoors during the winter months. This dry air can cause respiratory tracts to become drier, making them more vulnerable to viruses. Additionally, viruses like the flu tend to survive longer in dry, cold environments, making it easier for them to spread.

- Closed Windows and Poor Ventilation

When the weather is cold, windows are often kept shut, reducing the flow of fresh air and ventilation in the home. This allows germs to accumulate in enclosed spaces, increasing the chances of illness spreading from one person to another.

- Weakened Immune Systems

Cold weather can weaken the body’s immune defenses, making it harder to fend off infections. Shorter days and less sunlight also contribute to lower Vitamin D levels, which play a key role in immune function.

Given these factors, it’s essential to step up cleaning and sanitization routines to minimize the spread of germs and keep your home as germ-free as possible.

Areas in Your Home That Need Extra Attention

When cold and flu season arrives, certain areas of your home become hotspots for germs. These high-touch surfaces and commonly used spaces need extra cleaning to prevent the spread of illnesses. Here are the key areas to focus on:

- Door Handles and Light Switches

Door handles, light switches, and other frequently touched surfaces like cabinet knobs and drawer pulls are prime areas for germs to spread. Regularly disinfecting these surfaces is a quick and easy way to minimize the risk of illness.

- Remote Controls and Electronics

Television remotes, gaming controllers, phones, and tablets are often shared between multiple people, making them high-risk for germ transfer. Wipe down these devices frequently with disinfectant wipes to keep them germ-free.

- Kitchen Counters and Sinks

The kitchen is a central hub in any home, and as such, it’s a hotspot for germs. Wipe down kitchen counters and sinks after every use, especially after preparing food. Germs can also linger on refrigerator handles, microwaves, and oven doors, so make sure to sanitize these areas regularly.

- Bathroom Surfaces

Bathrooms are notorious for harboring germs, especially as cold and flu season ramps up. Focus on cleaning and sanitizing toilet handles, faucets, and countertops daily. Also, don’t forget to regularly wash hand towels and bath mats, which can harbor bacteria.

- Shared Spaces and Furniture

Living rooms and shared spaces where family members gather, like sofas and coffee tables, should be cleaned more frequently. Wipe down hard surfaces, and vacuum or steam-clean upholstery to remove germs and allergens that may linger.

- Floors

Floors can easily become a breeding ground for germs, especially during the winter when snow, mud, and dirt are tracked into the home. Regular vacuuming and mopping with disinfectants can help remove harmful bacteria and keep your floors clean.

Extra Cleaning and Sanitization Tips for Cold Weather

Now that we know which areas to focus on, let’s discuss the best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy home as the cold season approaches:

- Increase Frequency of Cleaning

During cold weather months, it’s important to clean and disinfect more frequently. High-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices should be wiped down daily, while bathrooms and kitchens may need multiple cleanings throughout the day.

- Use Effective Disinfectants

Not all cleaning products are created equal. Look for EPA-registered disinfectants that are effective against cold and flu viruses. Products containing bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol (at least 70%) are known to kill viruses effectively. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions for proper usage, and allow surfaces to air dry to ensure the disinfectant has enough time to work.

- Keep Indoor Air Clean

While cleaning surfaces is crucial, don’t forget about the air quality in your home. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce the number of airborne germs and allergens. In addition, opening windows for short periods to let in fresh air can help improve ventilation, even in colder weather.

- Don’t Forget About Soft Surfaces

Germs can linger on soft surfaces like upholstery, curtains, and carpets. Vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum and washing fabric surfaces regularly can help reduce the presence of germs in these areas. For a deeper clean, consider using steam cleaners or upholstery cleaners to kill bacteria and viruses.

- Encourage Good Hygiene Habits

Cleaning efforts are only effective if everyone in the household is on board with maintaining good hygiene. Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose. Provide hand sanitizers in common areas for quick sanitization when handwashing isn’t available.

The Health Benefits of Extra Cleaning During Cold Weather

Taking extra precautions with cleaning and sanitization during cold weather can significantly reduce the risk of illness. Here are some of the top benefits:

- Reduced Spread of Viruses

By disinfecting high-touch surfaces and frequently used areas, you reduce the chances of spreading germs and viruses, like the flu and the common cold, within your household. This is especially important in homes with children, elderly individuals, or those with weakened immune systems.

- Improved Indoor Air Quality

During the colder months, when windows remain closed, air quality inside the home can become compromised by dust, allergens, and airborne germs. Regular cleaning and the use of air purifiers can help to maintain healthier air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory issues.

- A Safer Environment for Pets and Children

Pets and children are often in direct contact with surfaces like floors, furniture, and carpets. By using safe and effective cleaning products and sanitizing these areas, you create a healthier environment for everyone in the home.

- Enhanced Peace of Mind

Extra cleaning measures provide peace of mind, knowing that you are taking proactive steps to protect your family’s health. In times when illness is more easily spread, a clean and sanitized home becomes a haven for health and wellness.

Conclusion

As the cold weather sets in and the risk of illness rises, extra cleaning and sanitization should be a top priority for every household. By focusing on high-touch areas, using effective disinfectants, and maintaining good hygiene practices, you can create a safer and healthier home environment for your family. Implementing these extra precautions not only reduces the spread of germs but also brings peace of mind during the colder months.