Why is it so important to clean your home in winter?

In the colder months, when we're indoors more often, cleanliness is key. Whether it’s maintaining health, preventing moisture buildup, or enhancing the home’s ambiance, effective cleaning during winter can make a significant difference. Proper moisture control, surface cleaning, and ventilation will help maintain a pleasant, tidy, and healthy environment throughout the season.

Meni Hazan, Business Development Manager at Shnaiv Sasatech, owner of Touch and TNX cleaning and home care brands, offers practical tips for keeping your home clean and organized this winter:

1. Managing Humidity and Preventing Mold

Winter brings higher humidity, which can lead to mold growth in closed spaces. To prevent mold:

• Wipe moisture off windows and walls with a dry cloth.
• Use a dehumidifier to maintain balanced humidity levels.
• Clean mold-prone areas with a solution of natural vinegar diluted in water.

2. Improving Indoor Air Quality

Heating and keeping windows closed for extended periods reduce air circulation and increase the risk of indoor pollutants. To improve air quality:

• Open windows for 10 minutes daily to ventilate the home.
• Clean air filters in air conditioners and heaters once a month.
• Add air-purifying plants like snake plants or ivy.

3. Disinfecting High-Touch Surfaces

During winter, when seasonal illnesses are more common, surfaces like door handles, remote controls, and light switches can harbor bacteria. To keep them clean:

• Wipe high-touch surfaces with antibacterial wipes or a damp cloth with disinfectant.
• Prioritize daily cleaning of kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

4. Keeping Mud and Dirt Outside

Rain and puddles bring mud into the home via shoes and coats. To minimize dirt indoors:

• Place a coarse doormat at the entrance to trap dirt.
• Set up a shoe rack by the door and encourage family members to remove shoes before entering.
• Use a silicone mop for quick cleaning of wet floors.

5. Cleaning Carpets and Curtains

Carpets and curtains collect dust and dirt, especially in winter. To reduce dust:

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter for deep carpet cleaning.
• Wash curtains according to the manufacturer’s instructions or clean them with a handheld vacuum.

6. Cleaning Windows During Rainy Season

Even in the rainy season, clean windows are essential for letting in natural light. To clean them effectively:

• Use a mixture of warm water and vinegar to wash windows.
• Dry with a window squeegee.
• Clean on sunny days to avoid water streaks.

7. Reorganizing Storage Spaces

Winter is an excellent time to declutter and organize storage areas like closets, garages, and drawers. To keep things organized:

• Sort clothes and items you no longer need and donate them.
• Use dedicated storage containers to maintain order.

8. Enhancing Ambiance with Pleasant Scents

A clean, organized home creates a relaxing atmosphere, especially in winter when more time is spent indoors. To elevate the ambiance:

• Wash the floors with a mixture of water and a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or eucalyptus, for a refreshing scent.
• Light scented candles or use a fragrance diffuser.