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Writer's pictureEllie Azerad

1o: Pesach Prep Series: Are you Living in Germs?



Before You Dive into This Article, Prepare to Transform Your Home and Your Life!

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Now, onto our blog post for today:)


Have you ever stopped to consider how often you replace your kitchen sponge?


On Friday, I shared a simple tip on my WhatsApp status: replace your kitchen sponge every two weeks.


Little did I know, it would spark a conversation that shed light on just how many people overlook this basic home maintenance task.


As always, some people will say that you need to do these things way more than I’m suggesting, and then there will be people that are going to say you need to do this way less… Take my advice or leave it 😊


P.S. Wanna view my statuses? send me a message with your name https://wa.me/972543095656


MY PET PEEVE:

Alright, buckle up!

Originally, I planned to save this rant for the end of my article, but it's just too crucial to wait.

Here I go friends:

You absolutely need to clean your children's stuff! 🧼

I'm talking about backpacks and coats- and yes they can go in the washing machine- and SHOULD go in there once a month.

Also, clean your strollers often too!

And please, for the love of cleanliness, ban snacks in the stroller.

Trust me, it's a game-changer! 🚫🍪

And don't get me started on children's dolls, stuffies, and lovies. If these are getting used daily, they need a daily wash too! 🧸

Rant over. 😅



Unveiling Overlooked Tasks:


The response was eye-opening.

Many were surprised by the suggestion, revealing they only replaced their sponges once in the blue!

Some admitted to changing them every couple of months or only when they became visibly dirty or smelly. (omg!!)


It got me thinking:

if something as seemingly mundane as a kitchen sponge can be overlooked, what other aspects of home management are being neglected?


That's why I've decided to compile a list of essential home maintenance tasks that often fly under the radar.


These are the small changes that can lead to a cleaner, more organized living space and, ultimately, a happier, healthier home environment.


Things to Wash or Clean:

  • Bath Towels: Launder every three to four uses.

  • Reusable Grocery Bags: Wash every few uses, especially if they come into contact with raw meats or produce.

  • Shower Curtains: Clean monthly to remove soap scum and mildew buildup.

  • Toothbrush Holders: Rinse out daily.

  • Remote Controls: Wipe down with disinfectant wipes monthly.

  • Reusable Water Bottles: Wash daily with hot, soapy water or run through the dishwasher.

  • Pillows: Wash pillowcases weekly and pillows every three to six months.

Things to Replace:

  • Mattress: Replace every 7-10 years

  • Pillows: Replace every 1-2 years.

  • Toothbrushes: Replace every three months, or sooner if bristles become frayed.

  • Kitchen Sponge: Replace every two weeks to prevent bacterial contamination.

  • Filters: Replace every 1-3 months, depending on the type and usage.

  • Dish Towels: Replace every 1-2 years.

  • Hairbrushes: Replace every year, or when bristles become worn or damaged.

  • Pantry Spices: Replace ground and whole spices for optimal flavor.

Things to Launder:

  • Bed Linens: Wash sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers weekly.

  • Bath Mats: Wash weekly (at least!)

  • Kitchen Towels: Launder every day, or sooner if heavily soiled.

  • Curtains and Drapes: Clean every 3-6 months, or as needed depending on dust.

  • Throw Blankets: Launder monthly, or as needed if they become soiled.

  • Reusable Cleaning Cloths: Wash after each use.

Additional Tips:

  • Keyboards and Electronics: Wipe down keyboards, computer mice, remote controls, and other electronics with disinfectant wipes regularly to remove germs and bacteria.

  • Trash Bins: Clean trash bins and liners (at least) weekly with bleach.

  • Door Handles and Light Switches: Disinfect door handles and light switches weekly.

The Science Behind Cleanliness:

For those curious about the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance, consider these facts about germs and household hygiene:

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular cleaning and disinfecting can help prevent the spread of illnesses like the flu and COVID-19.

  • Kitchen sponges have been found to harbor millions of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella, making them a hotbed for cross-contamination if not replaced regularly.

  • Bed linens can accumulate dust mites, sweat, and skin cells over time, leading to potential allergic reactions and respiratory issues if not laundered weekly.

  • Children's backpacks and coats can harbor germs from school or outdoor activities, contributing to the spread of illness within the household if not cleaned regularly.


Hope you enjoyed this super long post!

All the best!


If you found these tips helpful - why not share this with a friend who could benefit from it, and encourage them to subscribe to my newsletter for more valuable content delivered straight to their inbox. Together, let's build a community of empowered Frum Minimalists! 🌟

-Ellie

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