Understanding Common Germs And How To Prevent Their Spread

Germs are microscopic organisms that can harbour and spread on dirt-laden surfaces, in the air, and even in living beings like humans and pets. They are also known as pathogens and can cause diseases, including foodborne illness, respiratory disorders, asthma, skin allergies, etc. The most common household germs are E. coli, Staph, salmonella, mould, etc.

It is important to protect your family by providing a clean and hygienic living environment. Since pathogens can grow anywhere, make sure you practice personal hygiene and regularly clean and sanitise your home. Proper disinfection of highly touched surfaces can make a huge difference. However, ensure you understand the common germs and banish those using proven methods.

In today’s article, we will discover the different types of common germs and strategies to prevent their spread in homes. The best part is that you can kill lethal household germs using all-natural and non-VOC products.

Let’s Get Started!

1. What are the Common Types of Germs?

There are four types of germs. Understanding them and preventing their spread is important for a healthy lifestyle.

Bacteria: Single-celled microbes

One of the most common types of germs is bacteria. They are single-celled pathogens that are invisible to the naked eye. According to microbiologists, not all bacteria are harmful. Some live in the body, such as the intestines, to help digest food and kill disease-causing microbes. But some may cause serious illness.

Many bacteria can get into your body and damage tissues and cells. Here are some common infections caused by bacteria:

• UTI or Urinary Tract Infections
• Strep Throat
• Tuberculosis

Thus, it is important to deep clean and sanitise contaminated spots with the help of trained end of lease cleaning Canberra professionals. They use quality products to kill common bacteria, such as E.coli, Staph, Salmonella, etc, that are commonly found on kitchen surfaces, sinks, and bathroom fixtures.

Viruses: Causing Viral Infections

These are smaller than cells and bacteria. Viruses can’t reproduce on their own. Instead, they need to invade a cell in the body and cause infections. The host cells get damaged during the process, making you feel low and sick. These can cause various diseases and infections, including COVID-19, common flu and cold, chickenpox, shingles, etc.

Viruses are treated with antiviral treatment and medications. Vaccines play a pivotal role in preventing or treating viral infections.

Fungi: Plant-like Organisms

There are multiple types of fungi. Some are edible, such as mushrooms, while some can cause lethal diseases, such as mould and mildew. They often thrive in dark, warm, and moist environments and can cause infections, including ringworm or athlete’s foot. Tackling mould is one of the challenging issues for tenants. They often lose their bond money due to mouldy ceilings and carpets. It is good to ensure proper ventilation and hire a pest control service to kill harmful fungi.

Protozoa: Harmful Microbes

These are also single-celled pathogens that grow in soil and water. They are similar to plant and animal cells but spread lethal diseases through contaminated water. Some Protozoa are parasites and can cause diseases like malaria, giardiasis, etc. If you detect early symptoms, it is good to contact a health expert to treat the issues.

2. Common Household Bacteria & Fungi

As you know about different types of germs, let’s discover more about disease-causing pathogens in a home. These are:

• Coli: It is harmful bacteria found in contaminated food, such as undercooked meat, cutting or chopping boards, and infested areas. It can cause various foodborne illnesses, such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
• Salmonella: It is also found in raw and undercooked meat and poultry items.
• Staphylococcus Aureus: This is a lethal bacteria, causing skin infections and food poisoning. It can be found on the skin due to contaminated surfaces. These can live on surfaces for 24-48 hours.
• Influenza: This is a common virus that causes flu and throat infections. It can spread when an infected person sneezes and coughs and releases droplets into the air.
• Mould and Mildew: grow in moist and damp areas, such as bathroom surfaces, curtains, grout lines, damp carpets, and basement walls. Effective removal of mould lets you breathe easy at home, preventing diseases.

That’s why it is good to keep your house clean and disinfected regularly. You can also hire professionals for a budget end of lease cleaning Canberra and secure your bond money.

3. Tips to Prevent the Spread of Lethal Germs

Below are some great hacks to prevent the spread of household germs from contaminated and high-touch surfaces  in a house:

Practice Hand Hygiene

Wash hands with soap and water, especially when returning home, before preparing or eating meals, using the bathroom, and after playing with pets. Teach this to your kids from an early age.

Regular House Cleaning

Follow the correct order to cleaning a house. It is good to rRemove dust, dirt, and grime from all surfaces, including frequently touched surfaces. Use eco-friendly products to remove stains, grime, and gunk from your carpets, walls, kitchen appliances, and floors.

Disinfect Surfaces

Use a disinfecting spray or wipe to kill germs from door knobs, electronic devices, remote control, toilet seat, etc.

Proper Food Handling

Always wash hands, cookware, and surfaces to prevent the spread of germs. To avoid cross-contamination, use a different chopping board for raw meats. Keep your appliances clean and shiny.

Bathroom Hygiene

Regularly clean your bathroom surfaces, such as the showerhead, walls, bathtubs, toilets, faucets, sinks, and floors. Also, ensure proper ventilation to avoid condensation and mould growth.

Wash Bed Linens

After the sickness, wash the contaminated bed linens in hot, soapy water. Also, wipe down commonly touched surfaces with disinfecting wipes.

Do Not Share Personal Items

Avoid sharing towels, comb, and razors, as these can harbour germs, leading to infections and allergies.

4. How to Kill Germs and Bacteria Naturally?

According to end of lease cleaning Canberra experts, you can kill household germs and fungi from your home using the following natural cleaning products:

• Rubbing Alcohol: It  is one of the most effective disinfectants for killing lingering germs on almost all surfaces. You need at least 70 percent rubbing alcohol. Spray and let it sit for 30 seconds before wiping it off.
• Heat or Hot Water: According to experts, a temperature of at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit is required to kill household germs and viruses. However, boiling water can ward off germs from clothing and bed linens.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen Peroxide can be used to eliminate mould, mildew, and other fungi from delicate surfaces and tiles. Use 3 per cent and spray on the surface before wiping it off.

Types of Common Germs and Tips to Prevent Them

Wrapping Up

To maintain a healthy home, it is imperative to understand common types of germs, bacteria, and viruses and prevent their spread. Follow these tips to keep pathogens away from your beautiful home.