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The Importance of a Clean Home for the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many Americans are gearing up to welcome family and friends into their homes. A recent survey from the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) finds that 91% of people are making an effort to clean their spaces before entertaining, highlighting that a clean home is not just about aesthetics but is crucial for creating a healthy and inviting environment.
Key Areas to Focus On
Hosts often prioritize what’s visible, with 71% focusing their cleaning efforts on areas guests are likely to see. This includes tidying up living areas, sanitizing kitchens, and ensuring bathrooms are well-stocked and clean. With the added concern of cold and flu season, 44% of respondents also reported taking the extra step to disinfect surfaces, which significantly enhances the health of gatherings.
Time-Saving Tips for Last-Minute Cleaning
Amidst holiday preparation, it’s common for hosts to feel pressured, often resorting to last-minute shortcuts, such as hiding clutter. Practical tips include:
- Focus on High-Traffic Areas: Quick cleans in the entryway and kitchen help make strong first impressions.
- Surface-Level Cleaning: Instead of deep cleaning, tackle visible dust and clutter in high-traffic areas.
- Engage Guest Help: Encourage guests to take off their shoes to keep your home clean and tidy.
DIY Cleaning Solutions
With an increased awareness surrounding the potential dangers of harsh chemicals often found in cleaning supplies, many are seeking safer alternatives. Simple solutions such as a distilled vinegar and water mixture for glass cleaning or baking soda as a non-toxic scrub can go a long way in ensuring hygiene without compromising health. The Environmental Working Group lists recommendations for safe cleaning products, which can be a great resource for holiday cleaning enthusiasts.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
The olfactory experience is underrated in creating a warm and festive environment. Consider natural air fresheners, such as simmering citrus peels or using fresh flowers to enhance the holiday spirit without heavy synthetic fragrances, which may trigger allergies and other health issues.
Planning Ahead for Stress-Free Holidays
To avoid the chaos of last-minute cleaning, try to plan your cleaning schedule in advance. Think of what tasks can be accomplished in daily increments leading up to your gatherings. For example, allocate specific days for different cleaning tasks, from deep cleaning a bathroom to dusting living spaces. Planning not only makes the process manageable but leads to a healthier and happier holiday.
The Heart of Holiday Gatherings
Ultimately, the holiday season should be a time for connection and joy, not stress over cleaning. As ACI President Jennifer Abril wisely puts it, health and comfort matter just as much as aesthetics. A clean home encourages everyone to relax, enjoy, and truly cherish these moments together.
This holiday season, let’s embrace a well-planned approach to cleaning that promotes a healthy, happy gathering for all.
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