How to Germ-Proof a Home

Germs can cause viral infections and illnesses, yet they are a part of everyday life, but learning a few simple steps to minimize germs in your home can be helpful. Here are some tips to germ- proof a house and help protect you and your family.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Wash your hands. This is the best way to control germs.
2. Wipe down hard surfaces with anti-bacterial wipes to kill germs.
3. Teach your children to wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and a mild soap. Make it a practice to wash hands when you first get home to minimize bringing germs from the outside world into your home.
4. Clean your telephone often both at home and the office. Germs like to hang out and linger around the ear and mouthpiece. Don't forget those cell phones either.
5. Spray disinfectants on household items that get touched often, like a computer keyboard or television remote control, doorknobs and hard-surfaced toys that children play with often. Clean the toys that other children play with after a playdate too.
6. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to eliminate bacteria and irritants in the air.
7. Use tissues when coughing and sneezing, and dispose of them quickly so other family members don't come into contact with your germs.
8. Handle food with care and clean the areas, utensils and hands often when cooking.

Tips & Warnings

• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers and wipes because alcohol kills many germs.
• Avoid touching items that a lot of people come into contact with, like elevator buttons or handrails in public places.