Despite what you might think, cleaning is a product of science that results from chemical reactions. Whether you're using baking soda, lemons, or warm water, you can deny that cleaning is less of an art but more of a science experiment.
Top 5 Must-Know Cleaning Tips According to Scientists
Now, in the midst of a global pandemic, cleaning and sanitation have been highlighted as one way to ensure our safety. Here are 5 must-know cleaning tips according to scientists that are sure to up your cleaning game.
The Two D's of Bleach
When dealing with viruses, bacterias, and contaminants, bleach is one of the easiest and most trusted ways to rid of pathogens' surfaces. However, to reap the full effect of bleach's germ-killing chemical, it must be sued the right way.
Mary Gagliardi, an in-house scientist and cleaning expert from Clorox, using the right ratio in dilution and ensuring proper dwell time are the most important steps in properly cleaning surfaces with bleach.
Gagliardi recommends using ⅓ cup of bleach per gallon of water dilution. Allow the surface to remain visibly soaked for six minutes before rinsing with clean water. She notes always to follow label instructions for maximum effectiveness and safety.
Treat the Kitchen Area Like a Bathroom
Dr. Charles Gerba, a professor of virology from the University of Arizona, says that surfaces such as sinks, kitchen sponges, and cutting boards are likely to be hotspots for fecal matter due to the excess moisture left by food particles.
To keep germs and bacteria at bay, one must treat their kitchen like it was the bathroom---disinfect the area more because you eat in it.
Stop Using Cotton Cloths and Paper Towels
The tools used in cleaning are just as important as the technique. Nancy Simcox, an assistant professor at the University of Washington, says never to use paper towels or cotton cloths when cleaning, especially in the kitchen.
Instead, use microfiber. Numerous studies suggest that it is more effective in removing germs from surfaces. In addition, Simcox explains that microfibers have a static electric charge that attracts particles and doesn't spread the germs around as cloths do.
Prevent Cross-Contamination By Color Coding Microfibers
Just because microfibers are more effective than most fabrics, it doesn't mean that you don't worry about cross-contamination. Simcox recommends color code your microfibers to avoid sharing germs between surfaces.
You could use green microfibers for the kitchen, blues for the living room, and so on. Just remember to wash them thoroughly when dirty and not too overdue with detergent because it may damage the fiber's effectiveness.
Don't Forget to Clean Your Sink
Surfaces in your kitchen are dirtier than you think. Hence, you should prioritize disinfecting surfaces where food is prepared, like dishes, counters, and cutting boards. Just remember not to neglect your kitchen sink.
Nathan Sell, director of regulatory science from the American Cleaning Institute, recommends using disinfectants that are specifically designed for your type of sink.
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