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Flu Season Hacks for a Germ-Resistant Home

  • Feb 16
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 16


With the flu virus circulating widely, it is crucial to arm ourselves with effective strategies to prevent illness and maintain our well-being. Below are some valuable flu season hacks that can help you navigate this challenging time with greater ease and confidence.


Flu Season Hack 1: Clean High-Touch Surfaces Often

Flu Season Hacks for a Germ Resistant Home.

Germs spread quickly through surfaces that many people touch daily. These include:

  • Door handles and knobs

  • Light switches

  • Remote controls

  • Faucet handles

  • Refrigerator and microwave buttons


Use a disinfectant spray or wipes approved for killing viruses. Clean these surfaces at least once a day, or more often if someone in the home is sick. Pay attention to areas where children play or eat, as they often touch surfaces and then their faces.


Flu Season Hack 2: Open the Windows


Flu viruses can linger in the air, especially in closed spaces. Improving air circulation helps reduce airborne germs. Try these methods:

  • Open windows for fresh air when weather permits

  • Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms

  • Run air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne particles

  • Avoid overcrowding rooms to reduce close contact


Better air quality lowers the chance of flu virus transmission and supports overall respiratory health.


Flu Season Hack 3: Practice Good Hand Hygiene


Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Encourage everyone in your home to:

  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

  • Wash hands before eating, after using the bathroom, and after coughing or sneezing

  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available


Keep hand sanitizer bottles in common areas like the kitchen, living room, and near entrances to remind family members to clean their hands often.


Flu Season Hack 4: Launder Everything


Soft surfaces like pillows, blankets, and curtains can harbor germs. Choose washable fabrics and clean them regularly:


  • Wash bedding weekly in hot water

  • Clean throw blankets and cushion covers every two weeks

  • Avoid heavy drapes that are hard to clean; opt for blinds or washable curtains


This reduces the buildup of germs on fabrics and lowers the risk of flu virus spread.


Flu Season Hack 5: A Healthy Humidity Level


Dry air can make it easier for flu viruses to survive and irritate your respiratory system. Keeping indoor humidity between 40% and 60% helps.


  • Use a humidifier during dry months

  • Monitor humidity with a hygrometer

  • Avoid excessive moisture that can cause mold growth


Why? Balanced humidity supports your immune system and reduces flu virus survival on surfaces.


Flu Season Hack 6: Create a Sick Zone


If someone in your home catches the flu, limit the spread by setting up a designated sick zone:


  • Keep the sick person in one room as much as possible

  • Provide separate towels, utensils, and bedding

  • Clean and disinfect the sick zone daily

  • Encourage the sick person to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or their elbow


Why? This approach helps contain germs and protects healthy family members.


Flu Season Hack 7: Use Natural Cleaning Alternatives


Some natural products have antimicrobial properties and can be used alongside disinfectants:


  • Vinegar diluted with water for general cleaning

  • Tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil added to cleaning solutions

  • Baking soda for scrubbing surfaces


Why? These options can reduce chemical exposure while helping maintain a clean home.


Flu Season Hack 8: Keep Personal Items Separate


Avoid sharing personal items that come into contact with the mouth, nose, or eyes:


  • Toothbrushes

  • Towels

  • Drinking glasses

  • Phones and headphones


How? Assign each family member their own items and clean shared devices regularly.


Flu Season Hack 9: Wash Hands After Touching Anything


Flu viruses can survive on surfaces outside the home. When bringing in packages or groceries:


  • Wash hands immediately after handling

  • Wipe down packaging with disinfectant wipes if desired

  • Avoid touching your face during unpacking


Why? These small steps reduce the chance of bringing germs inside.


Flu Season Hack 10: Encourage Healthy Habits


A germ-resistant home supports healthy habits that strengthen immunity:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables

  • Stay hydrated

  • Get enough sleep

  • Exercise regularly

  • Manage stress


Why? Healthy habits help your body fight off infections and recover faster if you do get sick.


The Importance of Professional Cleaning Services


In addition to these tips, consider the benefits of hiring a professional cleaning service. A thorough cleaning can help eliminate germs and ensure your home is a safe haven during flu season. Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and products that may not be available to the average homeowner. This can enhance your efforts to maintain a germ-resistant environment.


Maid in North Carolina, Inc House Cleaning Service provides cleaning services in and near Advance, Archdale, Clemmons, Colfax, Greensboro, High Point, Jamestown, Kernersville, Lake Jeanette, Lewisville, Oak Ridge, Pfafftown, Summersville, Trinity, and Winston Salem, NC. If you live in our area, call 336-869-0078 for a free, no-obligation house cleaning estimate!


 
 
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