{"id":23496,"date":"2021-12-06T17:02:44","date_gmt":"2021-12-06T17:02:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alternatech.net\/?p=23496"},"modified":"2021-12-06T17:02:45","modified_gmt":"2021-12-06T17:02:45","slug":"avoiding-dangerous-spring-cleaning-mistakes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/avoiding-dangerous-spring-cleaning-mistakes\/","title":{"rendered":"Avoiding Dangerous Spring Cleaning Mistakes"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Stay safe this spring by steering clear of these potentially hazardous cleaning missteps.\n\n\n\n</p><p class='\"has-text-align-right\"'>By\u00a0Savannah Sher\n\n\n\n</p><h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Spring Cleaning Safety\n\n\n\n</h2><p>When the weather starts to get warmer, nothing feels better than opening up the windows, letting in fresh air, and sprucing up our homes for the new season. There are a number of risky behaviors, however, that can make spring cleaning a hazard. Keep yourself and the rest of your household safe and healthy this spring by avoiding the following cleaning mistakes.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img fetchpriority='\"high\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/spring_cleaning_safety_tips.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23497\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/spring_cleaning_safety_tips.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Unsafe Ladders\n\n\n\n</h2><p>Ladder accidents lead to 164,000 emergency room visits in the United States each year, according to the World Health Organization. Whether you\u2019re cleaning out the gutters or dusting the tops of your kitchen cabinets, following proper ladder safety practices is essential during spring cleaning. Make sure the ladder is set up on an even surface and that the spreaders are locked before mounting it. It\u2019s also prudent to have a spotter there to steady the ladder and lend a hand if necessary.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/use_ladders_safely.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23498\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/use_ladders_safely.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Using a Dirty Vacuum\n\n\n\n</h2><p>A vacuum is designed to suck up dirt, dust, and other debris from your home\u2019s floors, but the bristles can end up housing dangerous bacteria. A\u00a0study\u00a0by the University of Arizona found that vacuum brushes contained traces of mold, E. coli, and even feces\u2014yuck! A vacuum should be disassembled and deep cleaned annually, but it\u2019s also important to clean the filters on a monthly basis and the bristles after every few uses.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/change_vacuum_filters.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23503\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/change_vacuum_filters.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\n\n\n</p><h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Mixing Chemicals\n\n\n\n</h2><p>There are many commonly-used household cleaning ingredients that don\u2019t play well together. Bleach, for example, is notoriously tricky to pair with other substances. A dangerous reaction can occur if bleach is inadvertently mixed with vinegar, ammonia, or rubbing alcohol. Unless you\u2019re willing to carefully read and interpret the ingredient lists on all your products, it\u2019s best to avoid mixing any two together.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/dont_mix_cleaning_chemicals.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23499\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/dont_mix_cleaning_chemicals.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Using Dirty Cleaning Tools\n\n\n\n</h2><p>Clean tools are essential during spring cleaning, so it\u2019s important to ensure sponges, brushes, and rags are washed or sanitized before getting started. Using a\u00a0dirty sponge, for example, can spread bacteria around rather than eliminate it. When spending a whole day cleaning, cloths and sponges should be sanitized or replaced regularly to avoid spreading germs from room to room, so consider swapping out tools as you work.\n\n\n\n</p><p>\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/cleaning_supplies_clean.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23500\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/cleaning_supplies_clean.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Carelessly Cleaning Animal Droppings\n\n\n\n</h2><p>All kinds of critters can take refuge in your basement, attic, or yard over the winter, and it\u2019s important to be careful when cleaning up the messes they leave behind. Racoon and mouse droppings are particularly dangerous because they could harbor Baylisascaris procyonis or hantavirus, respectively. Be sure to wear equipment like gloves, a mask, and protective eyewear when removing animal feces from your home or yard.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/clean_animal_droppings_carefully.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23506\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/clean_animal_droppings_carefully.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\n\n\n</p><h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Not Wearing Protective Equipment\n\n\n\n</h2><p>Many commercially produced cleaning products contain strong chemicals that shouldn\u2019t come into contact with your skin. Even when using homemade or natural products, however, it\u2019s smart to wear protective gloves to avoid drying out your hands. It\u2019s also recommended to wear a mask when working in dusty areas or cleaning with harsh cleaning products to prevent respiratory problems.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/protective_eqipment_cleaning.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23501\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/protective_eqipment_cleaning.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Storing Cleaning Products in Unsuitable Locations\n\n\n\n</h2><p>Keeping cleaning products away from children and pets is paramount, so it\u2019s important to avoid storing them in low cabinets or out in the open where they may inadvertently be spilled or ingested. Be sure to keep chemical cleaners out of reach of little ones in a garage or upper shelf in order to avoid accidents.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"985\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/store_chemicals_safely.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23502\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/store_chemicals_safely.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Unsafe Lifting Techniques\n\n\n\n</h2><p>Muscle strains, disc injuries, and joint pain can all result from unsafe lifting. Whether you\u2019re moving furniture, ladders, or cleaning equipment, practicing proper lifting techniques is key. It\u2019s important to stretch before doing any heavy lifting and to bend your knees to avoid putting undue pressure on the back. Also, don\u2019t attempt to do a job alone if it requires an extra set of hands.\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/lift_objects_safely-1.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23505\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/lift_objects_safely-1.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Disposing of Cleaning Products Incorrectly\n\n\n\n</h2><p>Be sure to check the labels on your cleaning products for how they should be disposed of. Many cleaning wipes, for example, can cause clogs if they\u2019re flushed down the toilet. Some cleaning products may be considered hazardous waste and shouldn\u2019t be placed in the trash. Instead, contact your municipality to verify the best way to dispose of these products.\n\n\n\n</p><p>\n\n\n\n\n\n</p><h2 class='\"wp-block-heading\"'>Improper Ventilation\n\n\n\n</h2><p>While it\u2019s always best to use the most natural cleaners available, some jobs require more serious chemicals. Opening the windows not only instantly makes a home feel fresher and cleaner, but proper ventilation also prevents you from breathing in the fumes of chemical cleaning products. Keep the windows open as much as possible during spring cleaning and use fans to increase ventilation even further.\n\n\n\n</p><p>\n\n\n\n</p><div class='\"wp-block-image\"'><figure class='\"aligncenter' size-full><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' width='\"600\"' height='\"435\"' src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/12%5C/open_windows_spring_cleaning.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' class='\"wp-image-23507\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/open_windows_spring_cleaning.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n\n\n\n<p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"</p><p>Stay safe this spring by steering clear of these potentially hazardous cleaning missteps. By\u00a0Savannah Sher Spring Cleaning Safety When the weather starts to get warmer, nothing feels better than opening up the windows, letting in fresh air, and sprucing up our homes for the new season. There are a number of risky behaviors, however, that\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":23508,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[54,43,61,100,96,30,46,6,31,32],"class_list":{"0":"post-23496","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-tie-life-style","8":"tag-clean-hack","9":"tag-cleaning-house","10":"tag-cleaning-tips","11":"tag-diy","12":"tag-diy-home","13":"tag-household-hacks","14":"tag-life-hacks","15":"tag-life-style","16":"tag-tips","17":"tag-tricks"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Colorful-Photo-centric-Vlogging-Creative-Presentation-1.png","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23496","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23496"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23496\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23508"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23496"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23496"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/writehorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23496"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}</p></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div></figure></div>