The myth of “scrub everything daily”
We’ve all been told that a sparkling, scrubbed-everywhere home is the gold standard. But the truth is, over-cleaning can sometimes do more harm than good, especially for your family’s health. You might be surprised to learn that cleaning less, when done strategically, can actually make your home healthier.
Which surfaces really matter
The first thing to understand is that not all surfaces are created equal. While kitchen counters, cutting boards, and bathroom sinks definitely need regular attention, other areas like skirting boards, walls, or decorative surfaces can be cleaned far less frequently without impacting health. Door handles, for instance, only really need wiping if someone in the household is sick. Windows, while satisfying to see spotless, don’t need weekly scrubbing; they’re more about aesthetics than hygiene. By focusing on the surfaces that matter most, you save time and reduce unnecessary exposure to cleaning chemicals.
How over-cleaning can harm indoor air quality
Ironically, over-cleaning can even harm indoor air quality. Many conventional cleaning products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals into the air. Frequent use of strong sprays and disinfectants can leave residues that linger, sometimes aggravating asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. On top of that, aggressive scrubbing can stir up dust and microbes rather than eliminating them, sending them back into the air you breathe. In essence, trying to make your home “too clean” can paradoxically make it less healthy.
Eco-friendly cleaners: safer for you and your family
This is where eco-friendly cleaning products come into play. They’re designed to be effective without leaving behind harsh chemicals. Ingredients like plant-based surfactants, baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils can clean and deodorise surfaces while keeping your indoor environment safer. Using them strategically, on the surfaces that truly need regular attention, strikes a perfect balance between hygiene and wellbeing. One of many great brands for ready to go, store bought products that are low tox is Kin Kin Naturals; often found in IGA and other local stores. Here is a list of stockists if you’re interested and don’t have the time to dedicate to making your own products at home. Making the switch doesn’t need to be hard.
Cleaning less for mental wellbeing
Another often-overlooked benefit of cleaning less is mental health. Just as a tidy home can bring clarity and calm, the opposite can be true when over-cleaning; scrubbing every inch of your home daily can create stress and pressure, turning what should be a comfortable sanctuary into a source of anxiety. By prioritising high-impact cleaning tasks and letting go of the rest, you free up time for your family, hobbies, or just a few moments to breathe. A relaxed home often feels cleaner too, because your energy is spent where it matters most.
The smart approach to a healthy home
In short, a healthier home isn’t about scrubbing until your arms ache; it’s about cleaning smart. Focus on high-risk areas like kitchens and bathrooms, choose eco-friendly products, and give yourself permission to skip the overzealous routines. Not only will this improve indoor air quality and reduce chemical exposure, but it’ll also leave you with more time, and less stress at home.
So next time you reach for that disinfectant on the skirting board, pause and consider: do you really need to clean that today? Often, the answer is no. And that’s exactly the counter-intuitive key to a truly healthy home.
Visit our blog for more helpful articles.
