Studies show that an unclean and cluttered environment can negatively impact our physical and mental health.
Particles such as dust, dander, mildew, or mold in the home can trigger allergies and affect respiratory health.
A cluttered space can make some people feel mentally overwhelmed and can contribute to depression. Clutter has also been shown to affect sleep. In a study conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, it was found that people sleeping in cluttered environments were more likely to develop sleep disorders. Lastly, clutter can increase the risk of falls and injury.
A thorough spring cleaning and decluttering of the home can greatly improve environmental and air quality and help reduce the risk of illness or injury.
Here are a few helpful tips to make spring cleaning easier and our homes more conducive to better health:
- Always remember to read the labels of cleaning products before using them. Certain chemicals such as ammonia, sodium hypochlorite, and formaldehyde can trigger allergies
- Clean blinds with a duster or damp microfiber cloth (dampened cloths will attract more dust)
- Clean windows with a glass cleaner
- Wipe down walls, door frames, and baseboards. These areas are notorious for collecting dust but are often ignored
- Use a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter vacuum, to clean carpets, fabric shades, and drapes, also pay attention to fabric couches and mattresses
- Organize clutter by sorting items into four categories: donate, store, dispose and keep
- Clean wooden furniture by using a duster or microfiber cloth
- Mop hard-surface floors with a microfiber mop
- Wash bedding as recommended by the manufacturer. Don’t forget to also wash bedding accessories such as pillows, throw pillow covers and stuffed animals
- Thoroughly clean bathrooms to avoid a buildup of mold and mildew. A cleaning solution of three parts water and one parts bleach is often recommended for cleaning mold and mildew
- Clean kitchen cabinets and drawers with cabinet cleaner and degreaser
- Clean air conditioning and heating filters
- Don’t ignore hard-to-reach places such as ceiling fans and light fixtures. These can be cleaned by using a duster with an extendable handle
Spring cleaning can offer great benefits. For many, this includes achieving a sense of accomplishment and having a home that is tidy and free from clutter. The most important benefit however is, that spring cleaning helps to minimize exposure to allergens and other environmental hazards that can be harmful to our health.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.