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Cleaning Tips: How to Beat Germ All Over Your Home

With the growing spread of Covid-19 across the States, cleaning and disinfecting everything and everyone has been in the spotlight. But getting rid of germs and microorganisms like viruses and bacteria is a little more difficult than you may think.

Superficial cleaning with regular detergents is simply not going to do the job. However, a deep spring clean (even though it is only Fall) with the right chemicals will successfully disinfect your entire house and get rid of those unwanted germs..

The following tips are guaranteed to clean and disinfect your home from top to bottom:

  1. Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning has long been thought to be the ultimate in-home cleaning with manufacturers claiming that the high temperatures kill up to 99.9% of pathogens. Pathogens include microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and mold spores. However, there is some debate as to the validity of this statement, especially as it relates to killing the Coronavirus.

Steam is used to sterilize medical instruments and equipment in labs, hospitals, clinics, doctor’s and dental rooms. This sterilization is performed in an autoclave which reaches temperatures of 121 degrees Celsius (249.8 degrees Fahrenheit) which is only possible due to the pressure. Regular steamers only reach a temperature of around 66°C (149°F) which is insufficient to kill pathogens.

However, some industrial or professional steam cleaners reach much higher temperatures close to that of an autoclave and are therefore effective at eliminating germs around the home. It is recommended to invest in a professional steam cleaner and check the max temp for the best results if you want to eliminate germs without using chemicals.

That said, you also need to be aware that steam cleaners are more effective on soft surfaces than hard surfaces. So, it is ideal to deep clean carpets, upholstery, drapes etc. but not so effective on counter tops or other hard surfaces. The RGS Cleaning company can give you more tips on steam cleaning

* The CDC recommends applying a layer of soap to surfaces (soft and hard) before steaming to eliminate the Coronavirus.

  1. Thick Bleach

We are all quite familiar with regular, liquid bleach that is commonly used to remove stains from white fabrics. The active ingredient in bleach is chlorine which is also effective at eliminating pathogens including bacteria, viruses and mold. Thick bleach has a higher concentration of Chlorine and is therefore more effective at eliminating germs.

It is the ideal cleaner for just about all surfaces as well as toilets, baths, basins, drains, floors, etc. However, it is not ideal for any fabric other than white as it will fade and bleach color. Repeated use can also cause fabric fibers to deteriorate and can result in yellowing of whites. It can also damage metallic surfaces.

Bleach should not be mixed with other cleaners or detergents as this can result in a chemical reaction that could be hazardous.

* Bleach is on the CDC’s list of approved detergents that will kill the Coronavirus.

  1. Hydrogen Peroxide

Most people are familiar with hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient in hair dye that bleaches hair. However, this powerful chemical is also the active ingredient in many household detergents and cleaning products. Although it has similar bleaching properties as Chlorine Bleach, it is much safer for use on a range of different surfaces including fabrics and it should not result in fading or bleaching of colors when used according to directions.

Hydrogen peroxide is effective at killing germs all over the home and can safely be used in toilets, drains and on all surfaces. It should not cause damage to metal surfaces if used correctly for this type of material. It is however important to check the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in regular household detergents. The higher the concentration, the more effective it will be at eliminating germs. Hydrogen peroxide is available in diluted forms. Up to 80% concentration is recommended.

*Hydrogen peroxide is on the CDC’s list of approved detergents that will kill the Coronavirus.

How to Clean to Eliminate Germs

Cleaning is a process that should follow a schedule to effectively eliminate germs in the home and keep them gone. The following steps should be included in a deep clean for your home.

– Declutter and get rid of furniture and other household items that are not entirely necessary or being used. Clutter is a breeding ground for pathogens like mold and bacteria.

– Vacuum as regularly as possible – at least once a week and daily if possible. Use a vacuum cleaner that has an effective filtration system to prevent pathogens from being released into the air during the cleaning process.

– Dust and then clean all surfaces (starting at the top of a room and working your way down) with a disinfecting detergent like Chlorine Bleach or Hydrogen Peroxide. Allow the detergent to work for a few minutes before wiping or rinsing away. Remember to clean under and on the sides of items.

A strong disinfectant, heat and regular cleaning are all critical to eliminating germs in your home.

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