Spring Cleaning for a Healthy Home

Spring cleaning was once an event, with homemakers cleaning their home from top to bottom. The rugs were cleaned and rolled up for the summer. The window blinds were taken down, washed and re-hung. The floors were cleaned and the walls were washed. Cabinet shelves and drawers were emptied, cleaned, repapered and restocked. By the end of the process the house was considered ready for the year ahead. Spring cleaning provided a new feel to the home, a new start. Today, busy lifestyles and dual careers rarely allow designated time for the annual cleaning. However, even if you are busy, it is still considered beneficial to keep your home clean. Consider modifying the tradition of the past to reap healthful benefits today.

• A clean home is a less stressful one. Family members who can find items easily in the morning start the day with less panic. Having a place for everything and everything in its place is old but wise advice.
• A clean home is a healthy home. Disease-causing microorganisms live and grow on dirty surfaces. Considering one in five Americans are at greater risk for disease because they have fragile immune systems, a clean environment is important. In addition, dust, pollen and other irritants can trigger allergies and asthma.
• A clean home is a safe home. Homes with excess clutter can pose a potential physical, fire or chemical hazard. Chemicals spilled or stored improperly can lead to major problems.
• A clean home can be a less expensive one. Changing filters can make a difference in the energy bill each month. Performing minor preventive maintenance can prevent big repair bills later.