Flu season survival: expert cleaning tips to protect your home

The flu is making its rounds, and while handwashing and masking are crucial, a surprising weapon in the fight against illness lies in diligent cleaning. But how often, and what exactly should you sanitize? We spoke with cleaning professionals and a medical expert to unpack the best strategies for a germ-free home, even if you're weathering the storm solo.

Early action is key: don't wait for recovery

The conventional wisdom might dictate waiting until you're feeling better to launch a cleaning blitz, but experts say that’s a mistake. “We spread the most active virus in the very early stages of illness, even a day before we feel symptoms!” explains Sandy Fulkerson Schaeffer, MPH, PA-C, a family medicine physician assistant. The advice? As soon as someone in your household feels under the weather, pull out the antimicrobial wipes or sprays. Strategically placing these supplies around your home encourages frequent sanitization – a small effort that can significantly reduce the spread of germs.

Even if you’re the only occupant, Yorleny Loeffler, owner of Yorleny's Cleaning Service, stresses the importance of proactive cleaning. “If you are living alone, clean as you go,” she advises. Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning, adds a crucial caveat: “Light maintenance is fine,” she says, emphasizing that the goal is to keep your space feeling fresher and protecting anyone who might enter.

The deep clean: a 7-10 day buffer

While immediate cleaning is vital, a more thorough deep clean is best reserved for after recovery. “A thorough wipe down of surfaces on day seven to 10 should do the trick to keep you from sharing your germs with outside visitors,” says Fulkerson Schaeffer. This allows for a complete sanitation without potentially exposing yourself to lingering germs while you're still vulnerable.

Targeted cleaning: what surfaces matter most?

The scope of your cleaning efforts depends largely on the sick individual’s activity level. If they're confined to a single room, focus on frequently touched items within that space: bedding, nightstands, phones, and even remote controls. Don't forget to wipe down surfaces used by caregivers, like door knobs and laundry baskets. Loeffler recommends, “Clean bathroom and kitchen touchpoints daily, and change your pillowcase each day or every other day to keep from sleeping on germs.”

But what if the sick person is moving freely around the house, or you're caring for yourself? Then, the cleaning field expands considerably. “If they’re walking freely, you have to assume shared spaces are exposed,” Wilson states, meaning kitchens, living rooms, and hallways all require equal attention. This includes everything from cabinet knobs and drawer pulls to refrigerator handles, countertops, and even stair railings. The list can seem daunting, but focusing on high-touch areas is key.

Beyond surfaces: don't forget personal hygiene

While cleaning surfaces is paramount, personal hygiene remains a cornerstone of flu prevention. Fulkerson Schaeffer reminds us, “Get in the habit of washing your hands or using hand sanitizer after blowing your nose, coughing episodes, and of course bathroom trips.” It’s a simple act with a powerful impact.

The bottom line? A proactive and targeted cleaning approach, combined with diligent personal hygiene, offers the best defense against the flu’s spread. Don't underestimate the power of a clean home – it's a shield against illness and a sanctuary for well-being.