Scrubbing toilets and sweeping floors are good tasks for your weekly cleaning list, but if you’re looking to do a deep clean this fall, think bigger…. and smaller. Some of the biggest objects in your home can harbor some of the worst bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. Make sure to add these tasks to your fall deep cleaning checklist.
Wash Your Washing Machine
Washing machines create the warm, wet environment that bacteria love, turning them into a potential breeding ground for e.coli and other pathogens. This isn’t a mechanical flaw, it’s by design. Washing machines are created to clean dirty clothes, not disinfect your laundry, and most do not have the capacity to kill bacteria — thankfully that’s what we have dryers for.
While wiping the drum regularly with a disinfecting wipe can help to reduce the overall number of bacteria, you should deep clean your machine. To do this, simply run a cycle with bleach and extra hot water. Get rid of any additional gunk by running a disinfecting wipe around any seals or rubber gaskets as mold likes to hide out in these spots.
Deep Clean Your Dishwasher
Your dishwasher may look clean and get your plates spotless, but it’s likely filled with bacteria and fungus. While the risk of harm from these microbes is very low for most people, it’s still a good idea to give your dishwasher a deep clean this fall.
One of the best ways to clean your dishwasher is to fill a glass with white distilled or apple cider vinegar, set it on the top rack, and run the hottest cycle possible. Then, while the dishwasher is still warm, but not hot (dishwashers can get up to 145°F), wipe and release grease, grime, or dirt from the water spouts, dishwasher body, and seals. If your dishwasher is especially dirty, you may want to run another vinegar cycle to ensure total cleanliness.
Don’t Forget Drains
Sinks are some of the dirtiest, germiest areas in your home, largely because of sponges and drains. While you’re able to wipe and disinfect the faucet and bowl or replace the sponge, your drains can harbor bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. Clean your drain using a solution of hot water and bleach to fully disinfect the drain plug and piping.
HVAC Cleaning Helps You Breathe Easy
While you can clean and sanitize the vent covers that connect to the heating and cooling air ducts, it’s a good idea to also disinfect your HVAC system. This can help improve indoor air quality, reduce symptoms of allergies and other health conditions.
Disinfect the Details
Deep cleaning your upholstery is a great way to also improve indoor air quality and help to restore vibrancy to your decor. Steam cleaning machines are a great way to disinfect and remove dirt and grime from deep inside carpets, curtains, and furniture.
Want to make your fall deep cleaning easy? Contact the professionals at PureProOne. From HVAC systems to upholstery, they’ve got the experience and expertise to help you disinfect your home this fall. Call 800-418-1750 today!