Clean your cleaning tools: here’s how

MANILA, Philippines – A few days before the New Year, it’s a common ritual in many households to go through every room and do a top-to-bottom clean out. It’s good for the health: you’ll be surprised at the amount of germs on your bed, which could be the reason behind that nagging cough. 

It’s also good for the soul. A clean out before the New Year involves letting go of stuff you don’t need, re-organizing your space, and making room for brand new opportunities and memories. There’s nothing that says “fresh start” more than an airy, spic-and-span house.

As you plan your de-cluttering routine, don’t forget to include your cleaning tools in the list. Regularly cleaning your brushes and other materials ensure their longevity and prevent the accumulation of bacteria. And it’s not just your personal kit — you should be paying attention to your household cleaning items as well.

Here’s a quick list of ways to keep your cleaning tools pristine:

For the body

Toothbrushes — Toothbrushes accumulate more bacteria than you think. Clean your brush in running water, always air dry, and store upright and away from dark, damp corners. Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months. An anti-bacterial brush with well-spaced bristles can inhibit bacterial growth and improve your brush’s cleaning power, too.

Makeup brushes — Makeup brushes should be cleaned weekly if you use them daily. Swill your delicate tools in a solution of shampoo and water. Blot — don’t rub — the heads on a towel. Lay flat on a table and leave to dry overnight.

Bath towels — Towels can start smelling funky even when freshly laundered. The solution: wash towels on a separate load with one cup of vinegar. Clean out your washing machine too, since towels absorb dirty water more than typical fabrics.

Loofahs or bath sponges — To disinfect, soak loofahs in a bowl of water and a spoonful or two of vinegar. Always rinse well in running water. Hang them on a hook a few inches away from the bathroom wall so that they dry properly (hint: the shower rod is a good spot).

 

For the house

Brooms — Brooms last longer when they are stored off the ground. Hang brooms in a hook against the door or utility closet. Combing out the bristles using a cheap plastic comb can also get rid of dust buildup in the tips. You can also wash the broom head using a mild dishwashing liquid-and-water solution, but make sure that it’s completely air-dried to prevent the bristles from weakening.

Brushes — Douse brushes in a detergent-and-water solution to unstick debris and other dirt build-up on the bristles. Afterwards, air-dry completely. Brushes, ideally, should also be hung during storage.

Cleaning cloths and rags — Most types of cloths and rags will come out OK after a cycle or two in the washing machine. Make sure to dry them out after each wash. Don’t hang on to these items too long since they wear out and store bacteria too easily — replace them as often as necessary.

Sponges— Sponges need to be sanitized regularly because they attract more bacteria and are prone to mildew when damp. Soak sponges overnight in an antibacterial solution. You can also mix your own using mild bleach or undiluted vinegar. Always wring them out after use.

Mops — Mops can also be disinfected in a solution of bleach and warm water on a tub of water. Rinse well and air-dry. When not in use, store mops in cool, dry areas.

Vacuums — Bagless vacuums should be emptied out after each use, otherwise, toss out the bag when it’s 1/3 full. Wipe the air filter clean every month, and replace the every year. Debris accumulates on the brush heads so make sure to clean those too.

Inspired? Discuss and share your own cleaning tips and tricks with us! – Rappler.com

Sources:

• About.com
• Brightnest.com 
• Cleanmyspace.com
• Wikihow