If you're like me, you use a canister or tank vacuum to clean hard floors prior to wet mopping, but this online article includes research-backed advice for minimizing the spread of toxins that are contrary to that method.
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/leave-germs-door-experts-asking-153426663.html
The dirty truth about taking your shoes off at the door
Sandee LaMotte
Updated Fri, December 8, 2023 at 8:49 AM CST
Here's an excerpt on the cleaning recommendation:
"'Before you ask folks to take off their shoes, be sure the home is as dust-free as possible, experts say. Never vacuum or sweep with a broom first, as that will only stir up all the toxins, sending them airborne. Instead, reach for the wet or spray mop. As counterintuitive as it may be to add water to dirt, it’s actually the best way to remove toxins, Litt said.
"'The same goes for any horizontal surface, Filippelli said, but stay away from feather dusters. “Do more regular cleaning of horizontal surfaces with a damp cloth — that’s windowsills, tables, coffee tables, chair bottoms, chair seats and other furniture in addition to the floor.
"'Use the “three-bucket” method if you live in an older home with lead paint or an area with high levels of lead outside. Have one bucket ready with an all-purpose cleaning solution, another to rinse and an empty bucket.
“'Some folks also use a very weak vinegar solution in their wash water, which works really well,” Filippelli said. “There are some super sterilizers on the market, but when cleaners are really good at killing bacteria, they’re usually not very good for us as human beings. Whenever you can smell a superstrong smell from something, you got to at least think twice about it.'”
* * * * * * * * * *
Regarding rugs and carpets, the studies would seem to suggest the advantage of regularly using a dry-foam shampooer in minimizing airborne toxins from them between thorough extractions.
What say you?
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/leave-germs-door-experts-asking-153426663.html
The dirty truth about taking your shoes off at the door
Sandee LaMotte
Updated Fri, December 8, 2023 at 8:49 AM CST
Here's an excerpt on the cleaning recommendation:
"'Before you ask folks to take off their shoes, be sure the home is as dust-free as possible, experts say. Never vacuum or sweep with a broom first, as that will only stir up all the toxins, sending them airborne. Instead, reach for the wet or spray mop. As counterintuitive as it may be to add water to dirt, it’s actually the best way to remove toxins, Litt said.
"'The same goes for any horizontal surface, Filippelli said, but stay away from feather dusters. “Do more regular cleaning of horizontal surfaces with a damp cloth — that’s windowsills, tables, coffee tables, chair bottoms, chair seats and other furniture in addition to the floor.
"'Use the “three-bucket” method if you live in an older home with lead paint or an area with high levels of lead outside. Have one bucket ready with an all-purpose cleaning solution, another to rinse and an empty bucket.
“'Some folks also use a very weak vinegar solution in their wash water, which works really well,” Filippelli said. “There are some super sterilizers on the market, but when cleaners are really good at killing bacteria, they’re usually not very good for us as human beings. Whenever you can smell a superstrong smell from something, you got to at least think twice about it.'”
* * * * * * * * * *
Regarding rugs and carpets, the studies would seem to suggest the advantage of regularly using a dry-foam shampooer in minimizing airborne toxins from them between thorough extractions.
What say you?
