In our daily lives, we often pay attention to the cleanliness of visible surfaces: floors, worktops, sinks. However, certain strategic areas are regularly neglected while they accumulate bacteria and viruses over the days. Door handles and switches, touched several times a day, are real breeding grounds for germs. This small cleaning action, although simple to integrate into your routine, could well prevent you from getting sick.
Why are door handles and switches at risk?
Door handles and switches are frequent touchpoints that everyone touches without thinking about it. Whether you’re coming home, leaving the bathroom or going from one room to another, your hands inevitably transmit germs. These surfaces, often forgotten during cleaning, become invisible vectors for the spread of viruses such as the flu, colds, gastroenteritis or even COVID-19.
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A simple but effective gesture: disinfect regularly
The good news is that it only takes a few minutes to fix this problem. Regularly disinfecting doorknobs and light switches can significantly reduce the spread of germs in your home. Here’s how to make it an effortless part of your cleaning routine:
- A daily wipe down in case someone is sick at home : A simple wipe with a damp cloth lightly soaked in mild soap is enough to clean door handles and switches every day, especially if you don’t want the whole family to be contaminated.
- Disinfect once a week : For a deeper clean, use a suitable disinfectant. You can opt for natural solutions such as white vinegar or a 70% alcohol-based solution. Lightly spray the surface then wipe with a clean cloth.
- Don’t neglect high traffic areas : Front door, bathroom, toilet, kitchen… These places deserve special attention because they are more frequently used by the whole family or guests. More frequent cleaning is recommended.
Simple and accessible solutions for disinfecting
The advantage of this gesture is that it does not require expensive equipment or harsh chemicals. Here are some quick methods to disinfect effectively:
- White vinegar : Natural and disinfectant, white vinegar is perfect for cleaning your door handles. Mix one part vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle and apply to the surfaces to be disinfected.
- Disinfectant wipes : If you’re in a hurry, disinfecting wipes are a good solution for a quick clean. Be sure to choose wipes without harsh chemicals.
- Household alcohol : Particularly effective against viruses, simply spray a little alcohol on a cloth and rub your handles and switches.
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Make this gesture a habit
The key to preventing these high-touch surfaces from becoming breeding grounds for germs is consistency. By incorporating this small step into your cleaning routine, you will significantly reduce the risk of transmitting germsand therefore the chances of getting sick. Get into the habit of disinfecting your doorknobs and light switches at the same time as you sweep or wipe your house.
So, when you next clean, remember: those little surfaces you touch all the time deserve your full attention. A wipe, a little disinfectant, and you’re on your way to a healthier home.
