Cleaning is supposed to be a simple task that should be done regularly. However, because there are so many different disinfectants and air fresheners to choose from, it can be confusing. There are always new cleaning products to disinfect a room that the manufacturer claims are better than the old ones. In reality, you do not need those expensive products!

Here is how you can disinfect a room effectively with very few products:

Wipe down surfaces with soap and water first

One of the indicators that you need to clean your surfaces is the presence of dust and other particles. When you see these, you probably take out your rags and disinfectants and immediately wipe them off of the tables and countertops. However, cleaning your surfaces with soap and water first will help you get rid of the dust in a gentler way, and help you reduce the number of germs on it. It will also help you get rid of sticky and oily surfaces without having to use too many toxic chemicals, which can worsen the indoor air quality of your room.

Use a homemade disinfectant

After wiping down those surfaces, they may look sparkling, but there are still some impurities that simple soap and water cannot kill. This does not mean that you have to use those harmful and tough-smelling commercial disinfectants. There are many natural and gentle disinfectant solutions you can find online. You can make them in bulk with ingredients found in your home like vinegar, essential oils, and even vodka! There is a perfect solution for every surface, and the best part ¬— they are a lot cheaper and safer than disinfectants you buy in stores!

Even though you have already “washed” your surfaces with soap and water, you should still use disinfectants. This will kill those nasty pollutants that have stayed even after wiping. If you do not have time to create homemade disinfectants, try buying one from a friend or purchasing one from zero-waste stores that make them with natural ingredients.

Change your HVAC filter once a month

Commercially available disinfectants may contain chemicals that float in the air and can cause harm to you and your family. There may also be other floating particles like pathogens and pet dander that you could be inhaling. Since your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit is responsible for the flow of air in and out of your house, make sure that its filters are always clean. Lucky for you, HVAC filters are sold in bulk, so you can get them at a cheap price. If you stash them near the HVAC, then you are more likely to remember to replace them.

Get your HVAC inspected annually

Sometimes, filters cannot do all the work. Germs, viruses, and dust can get stuck inside the unit itself. To make sure that your HVAC unit is functioning perfectly, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional technician at least once a year. If your HVAC is functioning properly, then the air inside your home will be well disinfected and operating properly, too.

These tips are not too difficult to follow, but they will surely switch up your disinfecting routine. Avoiding hazardous products and making sure that your HVAC is always clean will surely pay off with a cleaner environment and healthier air that will keep you and your family free from illnesses. Skip the expensive products. All you need is a few natural products and proper maintenance.