Debunking myths around household cleaning

By Rajvardhan Patil

New Delhi, March 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Cleaning may appear to be a simple task that can be completed without much thought about how to do it correctly. However, with the threat of COVID-19 still looming, it is critical to understand the truth behind certain myths about cleaning and disinfecting in order to keep viruses and bacteria out of our homes.

A clean house is also a source of positivity and good vibes, which is crucial as we spend more time at home. Here are some common cleaning and disinfecting myths that may help make your home safer and healthier.

Myth #1: There is no difference between cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting

Most people interchange the terms cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting; however, they must understand that while these words are related to cleaning, they have distinct meanings. Cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces and works by using cleaning tools such as a mop, soap, and water. This does not necessarily kill germs; rather, it reduces the risk of infection spreading. Sanitising, on the other hand, uses chemicals to kill bacteria and reduce the number of germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting uses chemicals to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting surfaces with chemicals also kills viruses, germs, and bacteria. Cleaning is followed by sanitising and disinfecting.

Myth #2: Bleach cleans everything

Bleach is not a cleaning agent. While bleach will certainly whiten a stain on a shirt and kill germs on surfaces such as the floor, kitchen counter, or restrooms, it is not an appropriate cleaning agent for removing a stubborn patch of dirt from any surface. Another disadvantage of using bleach is that it corrodes metals and damages painted surfaces.

Myth #3: Vacuum cleaners damage rugs

It is thought that vacuuming carpets and rugs too frequently can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the items. In fact, failing to vacuum a carpet on a regular basis can result in a pile of dust settling on the surface, eventually causing the carpet to break down. If not cleaned properly, this can lead to a variety of health issues; therefore, vacuuming on a regular basis is the best way to keep the house clean.

Myth #4: Dry dusters remove dust

Using a dry duster causes dust to spread around, moving from one surface to another. The area may appear clean after being dusted, but the air around it may be full of tiny dust particles that will eventually settle back on the surface. When the same duster is used on multiple surfaces, germs spread. A damp cloth or a microfiber duster, both of which are more effective, is a better way to do this.

Myth #5: Newspaper is a good option to create streak-free glass

Previously, people believed that cleaning glass with newspaper was the best method. This "cleaning hack," however, is no longer applicable. Newspapers have traditionally been made with ink and paper that reduces streaks on glass. However, the paper and ink used today have changed and no longer produce the desired result of streak-free glass cleaning. Furthermore, a damp newspaper can easily cause the ink to bleed, resulting in an even bigger mess.

Myth #6: Air freshener helps clean the air

Another common misconception is that air fresheners help to clean the air. This is completely false because all they do is perfume a room to mask bad odours rather than cleaning it. For fresh and clean air, open the windows and allow air to circulate throughout the room.

A clean home does not necessarily mean it is free of germs and viruses, so this aspect of home care must be given special attention. Your house is a safe haven! By practising good hygiene, you can invite good energy into your life by keeping it clean.

(Rajvardhan Patil, Founder of Rajaram Consumer Care)

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS