Health and Home
Winter Cleaning Challenges
Challenge: Winter is here, and with it comes more time indoors—and all the germs, dust, and clutter that seem to tag along. How do I keep my family healthy and my home a safe, welcoming space during the colder months?
Solution: Winter can be magical (hello, cozy blankets and hot cocoa), but it also has its downsides. Between the colds, the closed windows, and the mess of boots and coats, it’s easy to feel like the house is working against you. The good news? Keeping your home clean and healthy can do wonders not just for physical health but for mental well-being, too. A tidy, fresh space has a way of making everyone feel calmer and more at ease.
Let’s talk about some practical ways to stay on top of it all and create a healthier home environment this winter.
Step 1: Keep Germs in Check
Winter and germs go hand in hand, but a little prevention goes a long way.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces daily: Doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and countertops are hotspots for germs. A quick swipe with disinfectant can make a big difference.
- Don’t forget the soft stuff: Couches, curtains, and rugs can hold onto germs and allergens. Vacuum them regularly or steam-clean when possible.
- Keep toilet lids down: Closing the lid before flushing helps prevent the infamous “toilet plume” from spreading germs into the air.
Step 2: Freshen the Air
With windows shut tight, the air indoors can feel heavy, but it doesn’t have to!
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter: These vacuums are magic for trapping dust, allergens, and pet hair, leaving your home—and lungs—feeling fresher.
- Clean vents and HVAC filters: Dust loves to collect here and circulate through your home. Change filters monthly and wipe down vents for better air quality.
- Consider an air purifier: An air purifier is a great option for reducing airborne germs and allergens, especially in bedrooms or shared spaces.
Step 3: Win the War on Dust
Dust is sneaky, but you can stay ahead of it with the right tools:
- Feather duster for routine touch-ups: A good feather duster traps dust and is perfect for keeping nooks, crannies, and delicate surfaces clean without handling them. Use them regularly to stay ahead of dust buildup.
- Microfiber cloths for heavier dusting: For areas where dust has settled more heavily, microfiber cloths are ideal. They’re washable, reusable, and excellent for everything from wiping down baseboards to polishing wood furniture.
- Wash bedding weekly: Dust mites thrive in warm, cozy beds. A hot wash once a week keeps them at bay and your sleeping space feeling fresh.
Step 4: Keep Bathrooms Healthy
Bathrooms are busy spots, especially in winter. Here’s how to keep them fresh and germ-free:
- Target the hotspots: Faucets, sink handles, and toilet seats should be wiped down daily with disinfectant.
- Prevent mold and mildew: Run the exhaust fan during showers and wipe down tiles to reduce moisture buildup. For extra protection, a quick squeegee after showers makes a big difference.
- Deep clean weekly (or more): Sinks, toilets, and tubs should be cleaned at least once a week, and even more often in a busy bathroom.
Step 5: Protect Your Floors
Winter floors take a beating, but a little care can keep them looking great:
- Shoes off at the door: It’s a simple rule that saves hours of cleaning later.
- Double up on mats: One outside and one inside traps most of the dirt, salt, and slush.
- Quick mopping: A microfiber mop is perfect for picking up winter grime without much effort.
Step 6: Call in Reinforcements
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to stay on top of things, life gets busy—and that’s okay. That’s when it’s time to bring in a little extra help. Professional cleaners can take the weight off your shoulders and tackle those time-consuming tasks that make the biggest impact:
- Deep-cleaning pros: From carpets and grout to vents and baseboards, they handle the areas you might forget—or just don’t have time to deal with.
- Eco-friendly products: Choose a service that uses safe, green cleaning solutions. They’re better for your family, your pets, and the planet.
- Consistent help: A regular cleaning schedule (weekly, biweekly, or monthly) keeps your home fresh and healthy year-round. Imagine spending your weekends relaxing instead of scrubbing—it’s a game-changer.
The Bottom Line:
Cleaning isn’t just about keeping germs away—it’s also about creating a space that feels good to be in. A clean, organized home can boost mental clarity and give your family a calm, comfortable place to recharge during the winter months. And if it ever feels like too much? That’s what we’re here for.
Cleaning isn’t just about keeping germs away—it’s also about creating a space that feels good to be in. A clean, organized home can boost mental clarity and give your family a calm, comfortable place to recharge during the winter months. And if it ever feels like too much? That’s what we’re here for.
Robin Murphy is the president of two local companies, Maid Brigade and ChirpChirp, that specialize in safe, healthy housecleaning. Robin can be reached at 914-741-0552.