Cheaper and Safer Way to Clean Glass Windows

with Homemade a Glass Cleaner

In cleaning glass windows, mass-produced commercial glass cleaners are expensive, may not always be available and may contain chemicals you don’t want to be exposed to. Moreover, inexpensive, shady brand-less mass-produced glass cleaners from places that have corrupt government and lacks safety and health standards, like China, may have unknown harmful toxins that is not worth the risk. The remedy is making your own homemade glass cleaner from common household items either household ammonia or white vinegar, but I strongly recommended using white vinegar than household ammonia. 

Before opting out from using household ammonia, let’s understand what it is. Basically household ammonia is a solution of water with 5-10% ammonium hydroxide and has been used as a cleaning product. In general, ammonia is a common ingredient in most commercial cleaning products, fertilizers, plastics, synthetic fibers, dyes, colorings and pharmaceuticals. And in large and concentrate quantity it is toxic to most living things, same with dish washing soap and tea tree oil. But ammonia is more toxic than dish washing soap but less than chlorine based bleach. Hence, when using ammonia as cleaning agent safety precaution must be observed especially around children and pets, since ammonia can cause irritation and even burns skin and mucous membrane in prolonged contact. Moreover, that is the reason for frequent diapers change and hygienic clean up are a must for neonates, both human and other mammals, since ammonia is formed when urea in urine, breaks down. With regards to the impact of ammonia in the environment, that warrants another whole article or two, so let the blogger know if interest and watch out for it.      

White vinegar may be less effective than household ammonia in cleaning things that are oily since the base quality of ammonia reacts with oils and fats, from fingerprints, dirt and grease stains, forming soap and the water in the household ammonia solution washes off the soap formed, leaving a clear streak-free surface. However, white vinegar is less toxic and can be a good glass cleaner. A mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts water and a little hint of dishwashing liquid make a good homemade glass cleaner.

These are the materials needed in cleaning glass windows: homemade glass cleaner in a 500 ml spray bottle, soft sponge, high quality microfiber cloth or old petroleum-based ink newspaper, squeegee, and cotton swabs and/or soft toothbrush.

Steps in Cleaning Glass Windows

1. Schedule a convenient cleaning day. As per recommended in previous households cleaning article, schedule cleaning glass windows every quarter to avoid build up of dirt, grim and dust, and the need for an extra step in cleaning of windows’ frame and glass. Yet, cleaning would also depends on the glass window prominent and visibility in the living space, and how fast it accumulation dirt, fingerprints and stains. Always choose to wash glass windows on an overcast or cloudy day, or when direct sunlight could not hit the glass to prevent the homemade solution to dry off before able to wipe off the dirt that result to streaks.

 2. Clean window frame before cleaning the glass. Always wipe clean the window frames with damp cleaning cloth before cleaning the glass. And for extremely dirty glass, start by washing it with a soft sponge soaked in homemade glass cleaning solution with a little more liquid detergent, let it sit for a minute to soften the dirt, then wipe clean, repeat until satisfied. Do not forget to clean the corners, cotton swabs and/or soft toothbrush are great tools.

3. A streaks-free polish. Spray, to mist not soak, the glass with homemade glass cleaner. Wipe it off with loosely crumpled old newspaper, microfiber cloth, or a squeegee. Start wiping from top left corner to the top right corner and then down and start back again at the left side. Spot clean as needed.  

  

What do you think of this simple and inexpensive cleaning solution? Please feel free to share your thoughts and leave comments, questions, suggestions and/or corrections below. And do not forget to follow such show of support would greatly help this blog create better content. Thank you.

As always keep it clean and simple.

Reference

1. Neal, S.Y. (2017, August 21). A Simple Cleaning Schedule. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from http://inourhomesweethome.blogspot.com/2017/08/a-simple-cleaning-schedule_17.html

2. Neal, S.Y. (2018, March 15). Simple Way to Clean Mirrors. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from http://inourhomesweethome.blogspot.com/2018/03/simple-way-to-clean-mirrors.html

3. SFGate. (n.d.) Vinegar and Ammonia Window Cleaning. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from http://homeguides.sfgate.com/vinegar-ammonia-window-cleaning-48916.html

4. McCulloch, K. (2013, July 2). Is Ammonia Good or Evil? [Blog Post]. Retrieved from http://sustainablesuburbia.net/is-ammonia-good-or-evil/

Simple Way to Clean Mirrors

Mirror, mirror on the wall why you are such a dirt magnet among them all, but do not fear white vinegar is here. Speaking of white vinegar, it is useful alternative in cleaning glass and mirrors. Here are the basic cleaning materials required in mirror cleaning: a  spray bottle, sponge, old newspaper or microfiber cloth, ammonia-free glass cleaner or a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts warm water, cotton swab or used-soft toothbrush and, an optional, squeegee.

Steps in Cleaning Mirrors

1. Cleaning. For moderately dirty surface, a necessary spot cleaning or wiping with sponge moisten with glass cleaner or vinegar mixture to remove visible hard dirt and dust build up. For extremely dirty mirrors, start by wiping it with a sponge soaked in cleaning solution (add a little liquid dish detergent to the glass cleaner vinegar mixture), let it sit for a minute to soften the hard dirt, then wipe clean. Protect part of the mirrors with dry rug or towels that would be prone to rot or rust when exposed to moisture.

2. Final Cleaning and Polishing. Spray or sponge, to mist not soak, the mirror with glass cleaner or a vinegar mixture, let it sit for a minute and wipe it off with loosely crumpled old newspaper. Do not use newspaper with a soy-based ink. Wipe the surface in circular motions to avoid smears. If old petroleum-based inked newspapers are not available, use a microfiber cloth, fold into quarters to have 4 clean surfaces to work with, flip as necessary. Start wiping from top left corner to the top right corner and then down and start back again at the left side. Clean corners using a cotton swab or used-soft toothbrush. Spot clean as needed.  

  

3. Defogging a mirror. If mirror is already foggy a hairdryer help defog it, as hot air evaporate the moisture. To keep mirrors from fog-free for 3 weeks, apply a little shaving foam (not gel) or a car windshields anti-fog wipes evenly across the surface. After taking a shower, wipe it off with squeegee.

It is simple, fast, and very satisfactory. As per suggested in the previous article regarding cleaning schedule, mirrors are scheduled to be cleaned every quarterly to avoid extremely dirty condition that require extra step or cleaning product, but as always cleaning depend on how dirty a surface gets.  So it is really up to you.

Is this article useful? Please feel free to share your thoughts and leave comments, questions, suggestions and/or corrections below. And do not forget to follow such support would greatly help this blog create better content. Thank you!

As always keep it clean and simple.

Reference

1. Neal, S.Y. (2017, August 21). A Simple Cleaning Schedule. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from http://inourhomesweethome.blogspot.com/2017/08/a-simple-cleaning-schedule_17.html

Simple Way to Clean Floors

Floors, floorings, and floor coverings are interchangeable terms concerning the walking surface. In construction, floor would include the supporting part which is the subfloor, the permanent cover of the walking surface, while the floor coverings refer to temporary or loose-laid materials like carpet and rugs, and resilient linoleum and vinyl flooring. For this household hints article, it is about the common walking surface and how to clean and disinfect, and mainly, how to keep it clean.

There are different types of floor covering and floorings from linoleum, vinyl, wood, ceramic, limestone, stone, cement, terrazzo, marble, granite and various chemical floor coating. They differ is durability, stability, cost, comfort, insulation and cleaning effort.  Different areas of a house require different type of flooring, example for kitchens flooring, durability and cleaning effort are the top requirement, and for bathrooms durability and moisture resistant. Other requirement would based on the climate, the traffic in that area, the occupants example are there any children, elderly, people with special needs and/or pets?

Steps in Cleaning and Disinfecting Floors

Starting with the most inexpensive, simple and easy to clean, would be linoleum and vinyl flooring. There are no special equipment needed like a bulky floor polisher or steamer. In cleaning and disinfecting this type of flooring, a broom, dustpan, floor mop, a floor mop bucket, detergent and disinfectant.

1. Cleaning. Clear the area with furniture, floor coverings and traffic. Sweep the floor from one corner to the center of the room and collect the dust and debris. If the floor is dusty and dirty, wet mop the floor with water and detergent until dirt particles and stains are satisfactorily remove. Re-mop to rinse the floor from detergent.

2. Disinfecting. Disinfect with a mixture of 30 ml of 5.25%-6.15% sodium hypochlorite or household bleach with 2 liters of water or other disinfectant. Mop the 1:100 bleach dilution and let it dry.  

Note: If using disinfectant and detergent always follow manufacturers’ instructions for proper and safe use, like recommended dilution, material-compatibility, and storage.

Keeping Floors Clean

Cleaning and disinfecting are quite easy but keeping it clean is challenging and directly proportional to the number and kinds of occupants in a house. Unique and adaptable measures could be applied that would suit the occupants lifestyle, example a mudroom to change outdoor footwear to indoor footwear like flip-flop or slippers, a no shoes policy in the nursery, regular cleaning and disinfecting schedule, keeping pets clean, and/or allowing pets in selected areas.

It is impossible to eliminate interaction with pathogens, as there are other ways that germs can be transmitted, like human-to-human contact, but other risk factors, like surface-to-human transmission, can be interrupted. Cleaning and disinfecting activities reduce disease causing microorganisms and decrease microbial load. A good standard hygiene could reduce infections and illness in a home.

Is this article useful? Please feel free to share your thoughts and leave comments, questions, suggestions and/or corrections below. And do not forget to follow such support would greatly help this blog create better content. Thank you!

As always keep it clean and simple. Enjoy!

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/

Cleaning Cookware

Vinegar and Laundry

White Distilled Vinegar is an environmentally safe odour neutralizer.  

Cleaning with Distilled -White Vinegar

The increasing advocacy for environmental friendly and safe cleaning products advance the use of alternatives especially natural and good grade products as cleaning and disinfecting products.  However, it has been discourage to rely on natural products as alternative for disinfectant, as they have been tested and founded out that are less effective than the commercial household disinfectants. An exception is vinegar, as Dr. Rutala (2000) concludes undiluted acidic solution is effective against Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli [1].   And to be more specific, since are a number of types of vinegar, white or distilled vinegar.

White or distilled vinegar is compost of 5% to 8% acetic acid in water and has a pH of 2.4 to 2.6, making it the most acidic among vinegars [2]. Since distilled vinegar is production is inexpensive compare to other vinegar. Its acidity, availability, accessibility and affordability would make white vinegar the right vinegar for cleaning.

Other Uses of Distilled Vinegar in the Kitchen

As an alternative disinfectant, a cleaner, and a deodorizer

1. Disinfect cutting board

Bacteria like Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli and high microbial load have been commonly associated with food poisoning and proper food hygiene has been an important part to thwart such preventable illnesses. Just in case, one run out of 3.0% hydrogen peroxide and/or bleach, undiluted distilled vinegar is an effective alternative. After scrubbing clean cutting boards with soap and water, soak it by spraying undiluted white vinegar, and let it sit for 15 minutes, before rinsing and drying.   

2. Clean, disinfect and neutralize chemicals residue on vegetable and fruits

Vegetables and fruits bought in the store or from the backyard garden are riddled with contaminants from soil humus to agricultural pesticide residue to fruit polish. As a precaution wash clean and soak with vinegar solution or spray undiluted white vinegar, then let it sit for 15-20 minutes, would help decrease microbial load and chemical residues.  

3. Shine dishware and glassware

Cloudiness and dullness in dishware and glassware may be cause by lime and minerals in the water. Easy solution is to soak items in a shallow pan or tub with 4 liters of hot-warm water and 500 ml of vinegar. The acidity of vinegar can dissolve some minerals.

4. Clean burnt pots and pans

Cooking especially frying meats and reducing sauces could lead to unfortunate a burnt residue in precious pot and/or pan. Easy and gentler solution is to boil just enough water to cover the pan or pot surface and 250 ml of vinegar together. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, remove from heat, transfer to sink and add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda. Expect a reaction, if the water is bearable may start scrubbing, may add baking soda and proceed to normal cleaning. May repeat procedure until burnt stains are satisfying removed.    

5. De-clog and deodorize drains

Oils, soaps residue and other organic material clogs and stinks a sink. Inexpensive solution is drain clog water, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar in to the drain. As chemical reaction subsides flush with hot water. Test by flushing cold water and repeat if necessary. Vinegar reduces odor-causing bacteria thus help in eliminating stinky sink smell. 

6. Dissolve and clean stains on faucet and showerheads

Remove soap scum, brines, water stains, and water-mineral stains on plumbing fixture vinegar solution. For stained faucets spray it with vinegar, cover with kitchen paper towel and spray the cover until soak through. Let it sit overnight or 2-4 hours, then clean as normal, may repeat until satisfied. To unclog showerheads, fill a plastic bag with one part water and one part vinegar. Place the showerhead inside, subsequently letting the vinegar bag dangle but secure it with rubber band or the likes. Let it soak overnight or 2-4 hours.

Solution and concentration in these cleaning tips are modeled from distilled or white vinegar, if one is using a different types might need to alter concentration. Keep separate containers of vinegar for cooking, for cleaning food and food items and another for general domestic cleaning, if possible, this is to prevent cross contamination.

With conscious effort to be short and simple, other uses will be featured in another post. If interested to learn more uses of this common, inexpensive and versatile culinary ingredient, vinegar, please do watch out for it.

Is this cleaning tip interesting? If you want to know more about this vinegar and its other non cooking uses or any cleaning hack please post your questions, inquiries and requests in the comment section below, and do not forget to follow. If you have tried these cleaning tips please share your experience and its result. And if you find this article lacking, please share why and please do post reactions, suggestions and corrections. And maybe follow to somehow help this blog post better content. Thank you!

As always keep safe and enjoy!

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/

2. Kinkead, E.B., Sehbai, D.S. & Tunney, C.J. (Eds.). (1972). Modern Century Illustrated Encyclopedia ( Vols. 9). Australia: McGraw-hill Far Eastern Publishers.

Vinegar - A Must Have

Vinegar is a familiar and ordinary item in the kitchen, now it becoming a must have household product. It is a sour- tasting liquid, used mostly in cooking as a culinary ingredient and as a condiment, and in pickling as a preservative. Since an advocacy of environmentally safe products, vinegar has become one of the top alternatives and has been at par based on popular demand with commercial cleaning and disinfecting products. 

What is Vinegar?

Vinegar is a sour liquid traditionally produced by fermentation of dilute alcoholic liquids, like wine, cider, or beer. This traditional fermentation process takes place slowly for few months, or even a year, where a natural biological processes of accumulation of a certain bacteria that oxidized ethanol to produce acetic acid. Another, faster method that takes only between 20 hours to three days, is by adding bacterial culture to the preferred liquid to promote fermentation and production of acetic acid.

The most important organic acid in our modern industrial times is acetic acid. It is also the main component of vinegar about 5-20% together with water and other trace chemicals. This organic acid gives vinegar not only its sour taste but also its acidic quality.  Acid is any compound that can easily lose a hydrogen ion, since a hydrogen ion is a simple proton, hence it is also called a proton donors, or sometimes electron. Acids react with bases and alkalis to form neutral compounds called salts. It is said to neutralize bases when they do this, as the common table salt or sodium chloride (NaCl) , formed when hydrochloric acids reacts and neutralized sodium hydroxide to sodium chloride and evaporated water. Vinegar cannot react corrosively that it could melt a penny but it is more acidic than an orange juice. It could melt a chicken’s egg shell in 48 hours but it is less acidic than gastric acid [1].

Types of Vinegar

There are dozens of different types of vinegar depends on the source of liquid. Varieties of vinegars have pH ranging from 2.6 to 6.0. Some may believe that some vinegar is alkaline-like, however and without a doubt vinegars are acids. They are weak acids in which it doesn’t lose it protons easily than strong acids. Here are some types of vinegar, commonly used and a must have in a pantry and/or a cleaning closet, or at least have a try.

1. White Vinegar

Among vinegars the white vinegar is quite unique as it is made of laboratory-produced acetic acid through fermentation of distillated alcohol, then diluted with water; hence the name and known for as “distilled white vinegar” or “distilled vinegar.”  The solution is compost of 5% to8% acetic acid in water and having a pH of 2.4 to 2.6. It is the most acidic among vinegars which makes it a good cleaner. As Dr. Rutala concluded in their study of natural cleaning products, undiluted vinegar is effective against two specific disease-causing microorganisms, which are S. Typhi and E. coli [2]. With its acidity it is a popular alternative for an environmentally safe cleaner and disinfectant. And so it is used in laboratory, and for medicinal and therapeutic reason. As a food ingredient it is commonly used in cooking, baking, and food preservation.

2. Balsamic Vinegar

This is the vinegar that prompted this article, great concern that  there are some cheap balsamic vinegar posing as the much expensive, marked, traditional, aged balsamic vinegar. The original and traditional balsamic vinegar is made from the concentrated juice of white Trebbiano grapes aged from 12 to 25 years, in successive variety of wood barrels, in the provinces of Italy [3]. Moreover, it has no balsam fruit in it. Importantly, it has a “Protected Designation of Origin” status and marked “tradizionale” or “DOC” this is to protect names and quality of regional agricultural products across European Union. This vinegar has a very dark brown, rich, sweet, mellow and complex, and notably aromatic. It usually has a pH of lower than 3, yet its acidic has been masked by the sweetness of other   ingredients. The cheaper non-DOC commercial form, also known as “aceto balsamico di Modena” or balsamic vinegar of Modena, is typically made from concentrated grape juice mixed with a strong vinegar, then coloured and slightly sweetened with caramel and sugar .    

Balsamic vinegar is used as a good quality food ingredient, from a salad dressing to marinades. It is used to add flavor and bring flavors together by using it to finish soups and sauce and braise dishes. It can be reduced to syrup and drizzled over vanilla ice cream or plain crepe. And a vinegar-based cocktails and soda are surely a healthier option.

3. Cider Vinegar 

Also known as apple cider vinegar or ACV is a type of vinegar made from cider or squeezed apple juices. It has a pale to medium amber color, while unpasteurized ACV has a cobweb-like appearance and slightly congealed as it contains cellulose and acetic acid-forming bacteria. It is used as a food ingredient such as a salad dressing, vinaigrettes, marinades and chutneys, as a food preservative in pickling, and as vinegar-based drinks.

4. Cane Vinegar

This type of vinegar is made from sugarcane juice, fermented either by slow or fast method. Well-known variations are from the Philippines, Brazil and India, but the kind of vinegar from the Philippines is the most appealing.  It ranges from dark yellow to golden brown in color. Similar to balsamic and rice vinegar, it has a mellow flavor, and much “fresher” taste compare to distilled white vinegar. It is mostly used as a food ingredient in vinegar-based stock for soup, dressing for raw fish dishes and marinades.  

Other Uses of Vinegar

1.  As cleaner and mild disinfectant:

• clean and disinfect cutting board
• clean, disinfect and neutralize chemicals on vegetable and fruits
• shine dishware and glassware
• clean pots and pans
• de-clog and deodorize drain
• dissolve and clean soap scum and brines or water stains deposit showerheads

2.  As an odor neutralizer:

• remove foul odor from drains, refrigerator, and microwave
• remove foul odor on clothes and  perspiration discoloration
• prevent and remove unpleasant smell produced by bacteria on the skin or body odor
• unmark pet spot

3.  As a fabric  softener:

• soften clothes and brighten colors

This is just a short introduction about vinegar, its different types and different uses.  A more detailed description on how to use vinegar as a cleaner and disinfectant, odor neutralizer and fabric softener will be available in the next cleaning tips blog post. Please watch out for it.

Do you like this article? If you do and want to know more please leave a comment and questions below and don’t forget to follow. If you find this article lacking please feel free to post reactions, suggestions, and corrections. And also follow to help this blog to create better content. Thank you!

As always keep it clean and simple. Enjoy!

References

1. Kinkead, E.B., Sehbai, D.S. & Tunney, C.J. (Eds.). (1972). Modern Century Illustrated Encyclopedia ( Vols. 9). Australia: McGraw-hill Far Eastern Publishers.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/

3. Italia Regina. (n.d.). History of Balsamic Vinegar. [Blog post]. Retrieved from http://www.italiaregina.it/balsamic-vinegar-aceto-balsamico-del-duca/ 

Effective Way to Clean and Disinfect a Cutting Board

Cleaning and disinfecting kitchen items are important part in food preparation. These food hygiene activities substantially eliminate or reduce disease causing microorganisms and decrease microbial load. A good standard hygiene, especially food hygiene, could reduce infections in the home. It is impossible to eliminate being infected by pathogens, as there are other ways that germs can be transmitted, like human-to-human contact, but other risk factors, like surface-to-human transmission, can be interrupted.

Targeted Hygiene Concept

The “targeted hygiene concept” as described by CDC is identifying situations and areas where risk exists for transmission of pathogens. This simple concept not only  points out to an  effective cleaning and disinfecting method but also efficient work flow, as it provide a reasonable way to identify when disinfection might be appropriate[1].

Advantages

Applying the targeted hygiene concept in the kitchen, clearly cutting boards are on the top of the list as most likely a source of surface-to-human transmission of pathogens, hence a thorough cleaning and regular disinfection is required. Short term gains are having a clean, odourless and flavor free board thus better tasting food. While long term gains directly concludes on financial aspect as it would lengthens the life span of the item, and avoid food poisoning which aids in maintenance of good health.

A crucial part in food preparation, it has been emphasized in a previous blog post to have two cutting boards: one for ready to eat vegetable and fruits, and cooked foods, and another cutting board for uncooked meats and such items. The rationale for such food safety practice is to avoid cross contamination. Also help reduce infections in the home.

Steps in Cleaning and Disinfecting Cutting Board

1. Cleaning. Wash clean cutting board with dish washing soap and warm water. Wet board with water to remove visible and large particles. Lather surfaces with dish washing soap using either a coarse surface sponge or a soft brush, this produce friction to dislodge or remove smaller particles and stains. Rinse.

2. Disinfecting. Disinfect with 3.0% hydrogen peroxide for 15 minutes, once a day preferably at the end of the day. Keep 3.0%hydrogen peroxide in a handy dark-colored spray bottle for kitchen use. Spray the bottled disinfectant into the washed cutting board. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse and hang dry. 

If using other disinfectants and detergents always follow manufacturers’ instructions for proper use, like recommended dilution, material-compatibility, storage; and also its safe use. 

That is how simple and easy to clean and disinfect a cutting board. It is applicable to any type of cutting board materials.

Do you like this article? If you do and want to know more please leave a comment and questions below and don’t forget to follow. If you find this article lacking please feel free to post reactions, suggestions, and corrections. And also follow to help this blog to create better content. Thank you!

As always keep it clean and simple. Enjoy!

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/ 

Essential Household Cleaning Supplies

This blog post is in synergy with the last one about a simple cleaning schedule. The value of keeping a good standard of hygiene is the prevention of transmission of disease-causing microorganisms. Having the right items for specific goal is essential in order for things to get done faster and easier. Here are 12 essential household cleaning items I would recommend when cleaning and disinfecting in home-care setting.

1. Soaps and Detergents

In hand washing and cleaning, there are 3 essential components which are cleansing agent, water (pressure/fluidics) and friction. Detergents and soaps are the most common and lowest cost cleaning agents utilized in our home. Dish washing soap and laundry soap are detergents with specific purpose as designated by their names. Bath and hand washing soaps are another type of cleaning agent use in maintaining good bodily hygiene.   

2. Baking Soda

Due to concern on environmental safety alternatives such as natural and food grade products have been encouraged and popularly used as household cleaning agent. Among the alternatives is baking soda, a leavening agent, but moonlight as a cleaning agent. Taking note of it abrasive quality one seek in cleaning a non-smooth surfaces but it is not EPA-registered disinfectant [1], therefore not made for and ineffective against S.Typhi and E.coli, not a reliable disinfectant. However, it is good in keeping glassware clear and shiny. And to be more economical, use the expired baking soda for cleaning and the unexpired for baking and cooking.

    

3. Vinegar

As mentioned above, advocacy for environmentally safe products encourages the use of alternatives compare to commercial cleaning and disinfecting products. A study conducted by Dr. Rutala, Barbee, Aquiar, Sobsey, & Weber (2000) concludes that most natural products were less effective than commercial household disinfectants; however, undiluted vinegar and ammonia are effective against S. Typhi and E. coli [2]. In addition, vinegar is a great natural alternative as odor remover and fabric softener. A vinegar solution soak is also a helps in unclogging shower heads and softening grimes on faucets.

4. Alcohol

In the healthcare setting, “alcohol” refers to two water-soluble chemical compounds: ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol that are considered mid-range disinfectant, between concentrations of 60%-95%, as these destroys many bacteria, fungi, and viruses in exposure periods ranging from 10 seconds to 1 hour. It is also a tuberculocidal as it destroys M. tuberculosis, a bacterium that caused infectious respiratory disease popularly known as tuberculosis (TB) [3]. It has been used effectively to disinfect small inanimate objects like scissors and thermometers.

5. Bleach

Household bleach is the most prevalent chlorine-based disinfectant. It comes in aqueous solutions of 5.25%-6.15% sodium hypochlorite. Its antimicrobial actions are effective against large variety of pathogens, fast acting, are not affected by water harness, and low incidence of serious toxicity [4], hence making it inexpensive. The disadvantages of bleach are corrosive to metal, discolour fabrics, and release toxic gas when mixed with ammonia, or acid. So please be careful not to mix bleach and Lysol products with ammonia as its main ingredient, surely you will see bubbling, sizzling and nauseous smell. Mixing 2 disinfectants would not maximise their antimicrobial effect.

Bleach is usually diluted in water at 1:10 ratio (~6,000 ppm) which the approximate dilution is 1 ½ cup of bleach in  4 liters of water; and 1:100 (~600 ppm) make up for ¼ cup of bleach in 4 liters of water. Please see table for the dilution corresponding chlorine ppm. The “ppm” measurement helps to identify at what bleach dilution destroy pathogens.  For example, low concentration 25 ppm and less than 5 ppm destroys mycoplasma and vegetative bacteria (no spores, examples E. coli and S. Typhi) in seconds, respectively.  One study shows 200 ppm in 10 minutes exposure time inactivated 25 different viruses [5]. Another, a concentration of 500 ppm showed inhibition if Candida after 30 seconds of exposure [6].

Household bleach is a straightforward disinfectant, and in reality it could really mess up tile grout. So, it is either use bleach dilution to disinfect, re-grout tiles annually and become a master "re-grouter"  within your lifetime; or find an expensive and effective disinfectant that would not destroy tile grout. If you are an arts and craft person who has a lot of time in your hand, then bleach would not be so bad. Bleach is inexpensiveness and availability usually used in large hard surface areas like counter tops and floors. I would use at least a 600 ppm with 10 minutes exposure time to disinfect counter tops; and 6,000 ppm on fairly clean or minimal microbial load floors. If a surfaces area is heavily contaminated, example pee or feces and the likes, it should initially be decontaminated by spraying until soaked 1:10 bleach solution, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then clean and disinfected with 1:10 final concentration. Just remember always follow manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions.

6. Other Disinfectants

A variety of commercial household disinfectants are available, and even different products under the same brand contain different active ingredients. Having a disinfectant with hydrogen peroxide as active ingredients would be useful in disinfecting coloured fabrics, sponges and cutting boards. Phenolic (example, o-phenyl phenol) and quaternary ammonium compounds show effectively in environmental sanitation of surfaces like floors, furniture and walls, but because it a bit costly compare to chlorine-based bleach. Moreover, most are non-corrosive to metal, comes in ready-to-use spray bottles or packaging, hence would be economical to use in smaller areas, like knobs and door handles.  

7. Sponges & Brushes

Essential items that provide an essential component in cleaning, friction, are sponges and brushes. Different kinds for sponges, from soft to abrasive, are use in cleaning kitchen wares, and surfaces like counter tops and sink; washing machines and bathroom tiles. Brushes range in sizes, lengths and shapes depend on object to be use from bottles and jars; to toilet bowls (ideal in longer length, with a container). After using always remember to sanitise by immersing to a 1:10 bleach solution for 2-5 minutes, for most contaminated item; or hydrogen peroxide for delicate one’s; then air dry. It would be convenient for sponges and brushes have hole or loops so they are just always be hooked, no need for bulky and contaminated containers that gather water and keep sponges wet and conducive to microbial growth.  To be more economical, save and recycle old toothbrushes to clean non-sterile items and/or areas

  

8. Cleaning Rags

Cleaning clothes from recycled old clothes is not the only option used in cleaning, currently we have microfibers. It is more effective in dusting and cleaning as such materials are densely constructed-polyester and nylon fibers, more absorbent and positively charges (dust are negative charge). So if reusable cleaning materials are used, they should be decontaminated regularly to prevent surface cross transmission.

9. Garbage cans & Trash bags, Pails, Basins & Spray bottles

Containers are needed to place garbage and contaminated materials. And also containers, like pails and basins, to dilute solutions, but use container that is only used to clean specified area and/or items to avoid cross contamination, example do not use to clean kitchen counter the same pail used to disinfect floors and floor mops. Do not forget to decontaminate regularly. Spray bottles are convenient containers for vinegar, alcohol and 1:10 bleach solution, just do not forget to place labels. 

10. Broom & Dust pan

Broom and dust pan use to gather and pick up multiple and/or larger particles. Decontaminate regularly.

11. Mop

Variety of mops from microfiber, cotton loop to conventional spring mop. The mop use would depend on floor types and areas. Always remember to decontaminate regularly if items are reused.

12. Gloves & Face masks

Gloves and mask are for personal protection from contaminants and large particles that could cause irritation, inflammation reaction and infection.

I always hope this blog post provide an additional knowledge about good hygiene. If you like this article please let me know, do comment and follow this blog. Feel free to leave any suggestions, questions, corrections and reactions. I always want to know what you think and it would help improve.

Since this blog post ended on personal protection, it would be in sync for the next article to talk about personal health and fitness, in particular on how to maximise taking vitamins and supplements.

As always keep it clean and simple.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/

2. Rutala, W.A., Barbee, S.L., Aguiar, N.C., Sobsey, M.D., & Weber, D.J. (2000.). Antimicrobial activity of home disinfectants and natural products against potential human pathogens. Infection Control Hospital Epidemiology,  

3. Smith, C.R. (1947.). Alcohol as a disinfectant against the tubercle bacillus. Public Health Reports, 62, 1285-1295.

4. Merritt, K., Hitchins, V.M., & Brown, S.A. (2000.). Safety and cleaning of medical materials and devices. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research, 53,131-136.

5. Klein, M., & DeForest, A. (1963.). The inactivation of viruses by germicides. Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association Proceedings, 49, 116-118.

A Simple Cleaning Schedule

Is cleaning important? Yes.  It is always an advantage to have a good standard of hygiene, especially food hygiene and hand hygiene, as it is not only aesthetically pleasing but also help reduce the risk of infections. And would save you from a whole lot of trouble and pain in the future. As an old adage says, “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure,” like proper hand washing, cleaning is a preventative measure against disease-causing microorganisms or pathogens. As defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning is the removal of foreign materials, organic and inorganic matters, from objects or surfaces, and is normally accomplished using water with detergents or enzymatic agents [1]. It can effectively reduce the number and types of microorganism or microbial load on soiled items or surfaces and help prevent transmission of harmful microorganism. In addition, thorough cleaning is important before disinfection and sterilization, as organic and inorganic matters can act like a protective barrier for microorganisms.  

As mentioned, other meticulous processes of reducing and eliminating pathogens are disinfection and sterilization. Disinfection describes a process that eliminates many or all pathogenic microorganism, except bacterial spores, on in animate objects, while sterilization describes a process that destroys or eliminates all forms of microbial life [2].

Not all items and surfaces in the house needed thorough cleaning, disinfection or sterilization. A rational approach in cleaning the house or housekeeping could be understood through considering 2 factors: the risk of infection and the microbial load. Consider the kitchen area, surfaces, items and equipment have been use in food preparation which will have contact with mucous membrane, specifically gastrointestinal tract, so any microbial contamination could transmit disease (risk of infection) hence it  needs to be kept clean and disinfected periodically. Generally, intact mucous membrane of our gastrointestinal tract is resistant to infection by common spores but susceptible to other microorganisms, such as bacteria, mycobacteria and viruses.  For example, strep throat a common illness that induces pain in the throat brought by inflammation mechanism caused by Streptococcus bacteria possibly transmitted via contaminated glassware or indirect contact of contaminated knobs while handling and ingesting foods (secondary transmission).  Another important area to be kept clean is the bathroom as such area have a high microbial load, as wet environment is conducive to bacterial growth. The high microbial load is a result of an activity designated for that area, which is the natural process of living organism’s final act of digestion, thus it is a priority to maintain a good standard of cleanliness and disinfection. In case, one is short on time areas like kitchen and bathroom should be given first attention when it comes to good hygiene.

For sterilization, it is not necessary unless you have a household member who is immuno-compromised or has a weakened immune system, that would be either the very young or old and/or in convalescent. Sterilizing of feeding items at least once daily, is important when you have a baby younger than 3 months, or was born prematurely, as infants at this age have not fully developed their immune system yet, so extra protection is a necessity.

General rule in cleaning always start from cleanest then to dirtiest, from top to bottom; and use the right cleaning agents, concentration, exposure time and safety precautions.

A simple schedule could provide a clear and logical flow in cleaning and disinfecting one’s home. Here is a Simple Cleaning Schedule:

I hope this blog post leave some useful understanding about appropriate practice of cleanliness or good hygiene. If you like this article and this type of information please follow and support this blog. And please feel free to leave any comments, questions, suggestions and reactions. I always want to know what you think.

For the next blog post, it would be in synergy with this post and would tackle essential household cleaning supplies.

As always keep it clean and simple.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Accessed March 16, 2016.). Guidelines for environmental infection control in health-care facilities: recommendations of CDC and the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC). MMWR 2003; 52 (No. RR-10): 1–48. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hicpac/pdf/guidelines/eic_in_HCF_03.pdf [PDF-5M]. 

2.  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/