Surprising (and Some Slightly Cringy)
Cleaning Facts – Plus Tips

While cleaning might seem like a mundane task, there are surprising, and some slightly cringey, facts about the cleanliness of our homes that you might not be aware of. Here are five intriguing facts that shed light on the importance of keeping your living spaces spotless.

1.   The Kitchen Sink: How Many Germs?

It’s hard to believe, but your kitchen sink can harbour more germs than your toilet. E. coli, a bacteria that can cause serious illness, thrives in your sink’s wet and moist environment. Germs can live on wet surfaces for up to three days, making your sink a hotspot for bacteria.

Cleaning Tip: To keep your sink germ-free, use a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. Sprinkle the baking soda in the sink and scrub it with a soft sponge; don’t forget the sides. Then, pour white vinegar over the entire sink and wait for the fizzing reaction to stop. Once it stops, rinse thoroughly. For other tips on cleaning your home with vinegar, click here.

2.   Doorknobs: One of the Most Contaminated Surfaces  

Doorknobs are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, but they are one of the most contaminated surfaces in your home. Every time you touch a doorknob, you transfer germs and bacteria, making it a breeding ground for pathogens.

Cleaning Tip: Regularly disinfect doorknobs with a household disinfectant or wipes. This simple habit can significantly reduce the spread of germs in your home, keeping your family healthier.

3.  Dust Particles and Dead Skin Cells

The dust that accumulates in your home is not just dirt and debris. Surprisingly, 70% to 80% of dust particles are made up of dead skin cells. These skin cells provide food for dust mites, which can trigger allergies and asthma.

Cleaning Tip: Regular dusting and vacuuming can help reduce the presence of dust mites. A vacuum with a HEPA filter can be particularly effective in trapping these particles.

4.   Remember, Close the Toilet Lid

When you flush the toilet, tiny waste particles are sprayed into the air, potentially contaminating nearby surfaces, perhaps even your toothbrush! This phenomenon is known as the “toilet plume”. It’s best to always close the lid before you flush.

Tip: Looking for a natural deodoriser? Place a few drops of essential oil inside your toilet paper roll. When the roll is used, a fresh-smelling scent will be released.

5.  Cleaning Can Have a Positive Effect on Mental Health

Cleaning is not just good for your physical environment; it can also positively impact your mental health. Engaging in repetitive cleaning tasks can have a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and anxiety. Moreover, a clean and decluttered living space can help cultivate a sense of peace and clarity.

Mental Health Benefit: By maintaining a clean home, you create an environment that promotes relaxation and mental wellbeing. The act of cleaning itself can serve as a form of mindfulness, allowing you to focus on the present moment and clear your mind.

Need a helping hand with the housework? Simply Helping provides home help and house cleaning for busy people, older adults, and people with disability. To see our full range of services, click here. Or visit our locations page to find a Simply Helping location near you.