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Disinfecting Your Home

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-750 -- More Projects »
TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham gives great tips on disinfecting around your home.
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Figure A

  • Disinfectants such as pine products, ammonia and bleach should be used minimally around your home (figure A).

  • Save money by purchasing cleaning products in bulk at a janitorial-supply store.

  • Do not use a disinfectant each time you clean, except when cleaning the bathroom or garbage can. Also, use two cloths when cleaning. Apply the disinfectant with one cloth, allow it to work for about 10 minutes, then wipe the surface clean with a separate cloth.
PHOTO

Figure B
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Figure C
  • Don't let your dish sponge become a bacteria farm. Disinfect it by placing it in the microwave for 30 seconds (figure B).

  • Other areas that need regular disinfecting around the home are door handles, pet areas (figure C) and telephones. Once again, let the disinfectant sit for 10 minutes, then wipe off.

  • Never mix ammonia and bleach.

  • After washing dishes, allow them to air dry instead of using a towel. Towels are notorious breeding grounds for bacteria.
    • Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-750
    •Caring for Sick Children
    •Disinfecting Your Home
    •Cereal Snacks
    •Tip of the Day
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