Healthy Home Newsletter January 2014 - Volume XVLLL, Issue 1

January 2014 - Volume XVIII, Issue 1

Owners: Len Hume & Annette Marchionda
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Germaphobes 101: Expert Tips to Stay Healthy
(BPT) - The chilly weather is here along with the dreaded cold and flu
season. While even the most avid germaphobes can't control every germ
from reaching their family, you can take extra precautions to keep a
healthy home. Follow these expert tips to get rid of germs - altogether.
Clean kitchens: According to the National Sanitation Foundation, more
than 20 percent of foodborne illnesses come from mistakes in the kitchen.
The bacteria that could be in the raw chicken you're cutting up for
tonight's casserole can instantly spread once you wipe your hands on the
dish towel. So here's how to stay vigilant:
 Stop sponges from spreading bacteria. Replace them regularly and
wash them thoroughly with soap after using. You can also kill harmful
bacteria by tossing a damp sponge in the dishwasher or by zapping it
in the microwave for approximately 30 seconds.
 Wipe down countertops, faucets, refrigerator and oven handles,
cabinet knobs, light switches and the telephone regularly with soapy
water or disinfectant wipes.
 Often overlooked, the ice dispenser is a proven area of concern for
yeast and mold, which are a problem for those with allergies. To
properly clean, turn the icemaker off, empty the ice and wash the bin
with mild dish soap and warm water.
Bacteria-Free Bathroom: Hot, humid areas are breeding grounds for
bacteria. Even small surfaces like the bathroom faucet handle can be home
to 6,267 bacteria per square inch, according to WebMD. Keep the
bathroom cleaner by:
 Attack shower gunk by cleaning tiles, shower curtains and doors with
an all-natural cleanser; not bleach which can eat away at grout. For
extra cleaning power, heat diluted vinegar in a bowl and pour into a
spray bottle. To prevent mildew and mold build-up in the shower,
leave the shower doors open when not in use.
 Keep surfaces clean and disinfected-to reduce the spread of stain- and
odor-causing bacteria. Did you know, on an unprotected surface,
bacteria can double in number every 20 minutes?
Healthy Home: It's also important to tackle the rest of the house. These
tips that will keep harmful germs and allergens from spreading:
 Clean your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery tool and brush roll? Rather
than sucking up allergens, these attachments could be spreading them.
 The washing machine is swarming with bacteria that can find their
way onto your clothes - and you. Kitchen towels and undergarments
are the biggest culprits and can harbor bacteria which detergent doesn't
kill. To prevent harmful germs from spreading, combine these items
together and wash with hot water and non-chlorine bleach. Take extra
precaution by cleaning the washer out with a disinfecting wipe after
washing a load in hot water.
 A dusty ceiling fan can send dust mites scattering. Ceiling-fan dusters
are a quick and easy way to get this job done. This should be done
every other month if you use the fan year-round.

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