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Spring Clean Away the Flu

A clean home does more than just look nice. It can help keep you healthy by reducing germs and bacteria, improving air quality, and keeping colds and flu at bay. With influenza, COVID, and other respiratory illnesses still making their rounds, spring cleaning can make a meaningful difference. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults ages 65 and older continue to have the highest hospitalization rates from seasonal respiratory illnesses. Here are some tips for spring cleaning for a healthy, illness-free home. 

Clean smarter to reduce germs 

Illnesses often spread through the surfaces we touch every day. Regular cleaning with soap and water followed by disinfecting helps remove bacteria and viruses in the home.  

Focus first on high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, appliance handles, remote controls, phones, and tablets. 

Soft surfaces matter too. Wash blankets, pillowcases, and towels regularly, especially during illness season. 

The CDC recommends routine cleaning and disinfecting of shared surfaces as one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of respiratory and stomach illnesses. A consistent cleaning routine helps reduce risk without adding stress. 

How to disinfect surfaces: 

• Clean first with soap and water. 

• Use a disinfectant and let it sit on surfaces for 3-5 minutes. 

• Use EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) registered disinfectants that you can find at stores, a 70% alcohol spray, or a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water. 

Helpful tips for disinfecting:  

• Read instructions on disinfectants before using 

• Make sure the area you’re cleaning is well ventilated. 

• Be very careful about mixing cleaning products. It’s very easy to accidentally create dangerous fumes. We recommend using just one product.   

Clean your body regularly 

Handwashing remains one of the simplest and most powerful ways to prevent illness. Wash hands before eating, after using the restroom, and after returning home from public places. Keeping hand sanitizer in easy-to-reach areas can help reinforce this habit, especially for visitors. Ask your guests to wash their hands when they visit your home. Good hygiene protects everyone. 

Effective handwashing tips:  

• Scrub with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. 

• Scrub all areas of the hands, including nails, between your fingers, and the back of your hands. 

• Dry hands with a clean towel. 

Protect yourself when leaving home 

Running errands, attending appointments, and spending time with loved ones can mean more contact with illness in the world outside your home. Taking a few simple precautions outside the home can help reduce exposure to illness. 

Wash or sanitize hands after being in public spaces. Carrying hand sanitizer in your purse or pocket can make sanitizing your hands easy anywhere. Avoid touching your face when out and about, and cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue. Keep some distance from people who appear sick. During times when illness is widespread, wearing a mask in crowded indoor areas may provide added protection. The CDC also recommends staying home when feeling unwell to help prevent spreading illness to others. 

These simple steps allow people to remain active while staying safer. 

Notice health changes early 

Early symptoms such as fatigue, cough, fever, appetite changes, or unusual weakness should not be ignored. Addressing small changes quickly can help prevent more serious illness. 

If you’re a family caregiver, keeping up with cleaning, health monitoring, and daily care can feel like a lot. You don’t have to manage it alone. Extra support at home can make a meaningful difference. Home care can support daily routines, meal preparation, and maintaining a clean environment.  

Early support often prevents small concerns from becoming major health events. 

A healthier home is built through simple, consistent habits. With simple daily habits and the right support when needed, home can remain a safe, comfortable, and healthy place to live.