Living alone offers a symphony of freedoms: blasting your favorite music at earsplitting volumes, indulging in week-long pizza marathons, and establishing a personal throne of pillows on the couch. Amid this glorious self-governance, personal hygiene can sometimes resemble a forgotten melody. For the independent spirits, here's a guide to 15 hygiene habits that might take a backseat when you're flying solo but shouldn't:
Shower Power
While living solo, it's easy to skip a shower or two, especially if you're not going out. However, aiming for daily showers, especially after sweating, is crucial. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection found that regularly showering reduces bacteria on the skin, which can prevent infections and improve overall skin health.
Regular Hand Washing
Even without roommates, frequent hand washing remains crucial. It helps prevent the spread of germs and illnesses, especially after returning home, handling trash, or cooking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends scrubbing hands for at least 20 seconds to kill germs effectively.
Brush and Floss
The Mayo Clinic emphasizes the importance of brushing twice daily and flossing daily to maintain optimal oral health, prevent cavities, and reduce the risk of gum disease. Also, dentists advise replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush is less effective at properly cleaning teeth and can harbor harmful bacteria that can affect oral health.
Laundry Love
Dirty clothes piled high might seem like a badge of bachelorhood, but fresh garments are essential to personal hygiene. Develop a regular laundry routine to keep your wardrobe and yourself smelling clean and fresh. Regular laundering also helps maintain fabric integrity and appearance.
Wash Those Sheets!
It's tempting to let bedding wash cycles lapse when the bed is yours alone. However, dead skin cells and sweat accumulate on sheets nightly. The National Sleep Foundation recommends washing them once a week in hot water (at least 133°F) to eliminate dust mites and allergens and improve sleep quality.
Tame the Trash
It's easy to overlook a full trash bin without the scrutiny of visitors. Yet, regular trash removal is essential, as an overflowing bin becomes a breeding ground for unpleasant odors and attracts pests. Better schedule regular trips to the dumpster to maintain a fresh-smelling home.
Shoe Shuffle
Leaving shoes at the door when you live alone can seem unnecessary, but this simple habit creates a barrier between outdoor dirt and your indoor haven. Also, one University of Arizona study discovered numerous harmful bacteria inside and outside shoes, including E. coli. This adds another reason to leave footwear outside to create a cleaner home environment.
Dish Duty
A mountain of dirty dishes can become a common sight when no one else sees them. However, this isn't just an eyesore—it attracts mold and bacteria. Leaving dirty dishes, utensils, and food scraps in the kitchen can also attract pests such as cockroaches, mice, and other unwanted visitors. Wash dishes promptly or load them in the dishwasher after each meal to prevent microbial growth.
Sponge It Up
Kitchen and bathroom sponges can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly. They are hotbeds for microbes, capable of harboring 54 billion bacteria per cubic centimeter. To combat this, microwave damp sponges for a minute or two each week to kill bacteria, or replace them frequently to ensure they are not contributing to the spread of germs in your home.
Vacuum Regularly
Neglecting to vacuum might seem inconsequential in a solitary living situation, but vacuuming removes dust, dirt, and allergens that can trigger allergies and make your home feel stuffy. Aim to vacuum carpets and rugs at least once a week to maintain a clean and allergen-free environment.
Don't Neglect the Fridge
The fridge can quickly become a site of spills and forgotten leftovers, leading to unpleasant odors and potential foodborne illnesses. To maintain food safety and cleanliness, regularly clean your fridge, wipe down shelves and drawers, and check for expired items.
Air it Out
The practice of airing out your home might fall by the wayside when you're the only one who smells the stale air. Yet, it offers numerous health benefits, including lung cleansing and reduced blood pressure. This practice positively impacts your family, pets, and plants as well. Fresh air removes stale odors, pollutants, and allergens, invigorating your home.
Sun is the Sanitizer
The benefits of sunlight as a natural sanitizer might be overlooked in solitary living. However, it’s excellent at acting as a disinfectant for a long enough exposure time. The ultraviolet component of solar radiation and the infrared component's heating effect can effectively inactivate pathogens.
Light Housekeeping
Regular dusting and wiping down of surfaces might seem less urgent without guests. However, keeping surfaces dust-free, wiping down counters, and keeping clutter at bay can significantly improve the overall hygiene of your home environment, making it a healthier place to live.
Fresh Start, Fresh Feeling
It's easy to skip those areas that don't see much traffic, but scheduling a deep cleaning session every few weeks, focusing on neglected areas like baseboards, vents, and behind furniture, will keep your home fresh. This not only enhances your living environment but also contributes to your overall well-being.