The answer is a clear-cut “yes” because most people clean improperly. To demonstrate what I mean, here are three questions you need to answer honestly: 1) How effectively do you clean? 2) What household cleaning supplies are you using? 3) Do you read the product labels and cleaning instructions for use? For most of you, I can already accurately answer the questions above: You clean the fastest way possible, use your favorite cleaning supplies, and do not read cleaning product instructions. Is this right?If you do not adequately clean your home, germs are rapidly accumulating on every surface.
Most people clean so that their home looks nice, but they never sanitize. Health experts say that some germs build your immune system: Yes - some germs, but not so many germs that your immune system is overwhelmed. Remember, some varieties of bacteria and viruses will cause us to become ill, and dust mites are responsible for inflammation and allergic reactions in many people. In addition, dust mites defecate 2000 or more fecal particles in their short life span. So please sanitize your home!
The cleaning products and supplies you use do matter: Not all products are safe for all surface types or square footage of ventilation space. Remember, cleaning products contain a variety of chemicals that can be absorbed into your skin or inhaled into your lungs. If you use the wrong cleaning products on some surfaces, you can create dangerous fumes that if not properly ventilated can cause serious respiratory inflammation. Did you ever read the “Precautionary Statement: Hazardous to Humans and Domestic Animals” listed on the back of your cleaning product labels? Did you know that it is against Federal law to use cleaning products in a manner inconsistent with its labeling? Product labels indicate hazards but also give directions for proper cleaning use.
Here are some helpful hints when cleaning your home: A) Read and follow all product label instructions. B) Wear gloves, whenever possible that fit “snugly” over your hands and arms. C) Open windows for extra ventilation and wear dust masks if you have allergies or respiratory issues. D) Rinse surfaces well to remove all chemical residue. Finally, “clean green” using products like water, lemon, baking soda, and vinegar. Natural products are milder to your skin and environmentally-friendly, as well.
Monday, March 23, 2015
The Truth About Dust Mites
Did you ever think about how many dust mites are among us and how dirty they really are? Well to tell you the truth, you may not want to know. But for those brave enough to learn about the "creepy crawlers," then read on about the bugs that sleep with you and eat in your kitchen. Male and female dust mites have a different life span with females living a little over two months and males living a little less than three weeks. The female can lay up to one hundred eggs in the last five weeks of her life cycle. Both male and females produce an excessive amount of fecal particles that no one can measure for certain; some records indicate at least two thousand fecal particles per female dust mite in her short life span.
Yuck!
Guess where their favorite places are in your home? Dust mites are everywhere throughout the home. But like all of us, they do have their preferred places to congregate: It is the kitchen and your bed, according to Wikipedia. Apparently, they love our bedding, including the sheets, pillows, comforters, mattresses, carpets, and furniture pieces. These areas are also their favorite egg-laying areas.
Yuck again!
Due to all the dust and waste matter, this is why it is so important to clean surfaces of your home regularly. With thorough cleanings, the dust mite population can be kept at bay. You want to make sure you remove the dust mites rather than simply scatter them around: a) use a damp clean cloth to gently wipe surfaces, including your mattress; b) wash bedding often; c) have your comforter cleaned, if it can not be washed; d) steam clean your carpets; and e) wipe down your furniture regularly. As a matter of fact, use a damp cloth on all material furniture if it is safe (make sure it will not change the fabric by testing in an unseen place before using a damp cloth all over the material.) These cleaning techniques listed above will rid your house of some dust mites and also prevent excessive amounts of dust from building in your home. We can't ever completely rid ourselves of "them" all, but we sure can reduce their numbers. Therefore, keeping your home cleaner!
Yuck!
Guess where their favorite places are in your home? Dust mites are everywhere throughout the home. But like all of us, they do have their preferred places to congregate: It is the kitchen and your bed, according to Wikipedia. Apparently, they love our bedding, including the sheets, pillows, comforters, mattresses, carpets, and furniture pieces. These areas are also their favorite egg-laying areas.
Yuck again!
Due to all the dust and waste matter, this is why it is so important to clean surfaces of your home regularly. With thorough cleanings, the dust mite population can be kept at bay. You want to make sure you remove the dust mites rather than simply scatter them around: a) use a damp clean cloth to gently wipe surfaces, including your mattress; b) wash bedding often; c) have your comforter cleaned, if it can not be washed; d) steam clean your carpets; and e) wipe down your furniture regularly. As a matter of fact, use a damp cloth on all material furniture if it is safe (make sure it will not change the fabric by testing in an unseen place before using a damp cloth all over the material.) These cleaning techniques listed above will rid your house of some dust mites and also prevent excessive amounts of dust from building in your home. We can't ever completely rid ourselves of "them" all, but we sure can reduce their numbers. Therefore, keeping your home cleaner!
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