Winter brings cozy evenings, warm blankets, and festive gatherings but it also brings cold and flu season. With more time spent indoors, germs can spread quickly through shared spaces, making it especially important to keep your home clean and hygienic during the colder months.
A few smart habits and regular cleaning routines can go a long way in protecting your family’s health. Here are five practical tips to help you keep your home clean and germ-free this winter.
1. Focus on High-Touch Surfaces
During winter, viruses tend to survive longer on surfaces, making frequent cleaning essential. Pay special attention to high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, mobile phones, cabinet handles, and stair railings. These surfaces should be disinfected at least once a day, especially if someone in the household is unwell. Use disinfectant sprays or wipes that are effective against viruses and bacteria, and always follow the instructions for proper use.
2. Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality
Cold weather often means keeping windows closed, which can trap germs and stale air inside your home. To improve air quality, open windows for a few minutes each day to allow fresh air to circulate. Using an air purifier can also help reduce airborne germs, dust, and allergens. Additionally, changing HVAC or heater filters regularly ensures cleaner air and better system efficiency throughout the winter season.
Read more: Hands-on learning urged as key to healthy child development
3. Wash Fabrics More Frequently
Blankets, throws, curtains, and cushion covers are used more often in winter and can easily collect dust, germs, and allergens. Make it a habit to wash these items regularly in hot water when possible. Bedding should be changed at least once a week, especially during illness. Don’t forget items like winter coats, scarves, gloves, and hats, which are exposed to public spaces and should be cleaned often.
4. Keep Entryways Clean and Organized
Shoes and outerwear can bring dirt, bacteria, and viruses into your home. Set up a designated area near the entrance for shoes, coats, and bags. Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes upon entering. Clean doormats regularly and mop floors near entryways frequently. Wiping down coat hooks and storage areas also helps prevent germs from spreading to other parts of the house.
5. Practice Daily Cleaning Habits
Small daily cleaning routines can prevent germs from building up. Wipe kitchen counters after every use, wash dishes promptly, and sanitize sinks and sponges regularly. In bathrooms, clean faucets, toilet handles, and countertops daily. Make sure everyone in the household washes their hands often, especially after coming home from outside, before meals, and after coughing or sneezing.
Read more: Motherhood in Europe: Anxiety, depression, and career setbacks rise
Keeping your home clean and germ-free during winter doesn’t require extreme measures just consistency and mindful habits. By focusing on high-touch areas, improving air quality, cleaning fabrics, maintaining tidy entryways, and practicing daily hygiene, you can create a healthier and more comfortable environment for your family all season long.
