San Joaquin Health Magazine 2020

Page 66

clean  BY BY NORA HESTON TARTE

EW-O-METER GROSS LITTLE HABITS

WEARING YOUR SHOES IN THE HOUSE

Whether you can see the dirt or not we promise you any shoes you wore outside will track dirt, germs, and other gross stuff into the house. Whether you just stepped in from running errands, or were hiking near Lodi Lake, we suggest you drop your shoes at the door.

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST WHAT TO WASH AND WHEN

DAILY Make your bed Take out trash Wipe down tables/counter/sink WEEKLY Clean toilets Scrub showers and tubs Do a sweep of the fridge for old food MONTHLY Vacuum upholstery Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches Clean stovetop Deodorize microwave SEASONALLY Deep clean fridge Wash curtains Wipe down baseboards Descale coffee maker 1-2X PER YEAR Dry clean pillows Wash comforter Empty and clean pantry shelves Clean oven ANNUALLY Wipe down walls Clean dryer duct Clean gutters Wash window screens

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2020 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE

FORGETTING TO CLEAN YOUR TOOTHBRUSH HOLDER (OR REPLACE YOUR BRUSH)

Those toothbrush holders, both for regular toothbrushes and electric ones, need a wipe down every once in a while to clean off yeast and mold that grow there. We suggest soaking it in soap and hot water once a week. Oh, and switch out your bristles every three months.

LETTING YOUR FRIDGE FILTER EXPIRE

That water filter inside your fridge should be replaced every six months if you want to keep your drinking water clean. If you have a BRITA machine or something similar, the filter should be replaced about every two months.

SKIPPING LAUNDRY

Laundering your clothes is part of the routine, but what about those other household items that need a good cleaning? Items like towels, bath mats, and sheets should all go into the

wash routinely. We tend to forget just how many germs linger on these items, including dead skin cells, sweat, and bacteria. Throw all these extras in once a week to keep clean, and every three uses for your bath towel.

FORGETTING TO WIPE DOWN SURFACES

Simple spills and quick sweeps are good for the daily, but once a week you should spend a little extra time disinfecting spaces like countertops, floors, etc. Wipe down kitchen and bathroom surfaces using a disinfectant every week, including appliances, mirrors, and sinks. You should also dust all hard surfaces, vacuum, and mop just as often.


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