Our knowledge of hygiene changes significantly over time. And, if earlier self-care consisted, at best, in bathing in a wooden tub once a month, today each of us has access to all the wonders of civilization, such as warm water, plumbing, and hygiene products. Here is more.
Myth # 1: Soap kills germs
Regular soap has little or no ability to kill bacteria. Instead, it cleanses the skin, allowing you to flush out most germs with water. Only soap labeled “antibacterial” can really kill bacteria.
Read also: How To Get Rid Of A Mold: A Comprehensive Guide
Myth # 2: Good bacteria will protect you from bad bacteria
The so-called “good” bacteria are those microorganisms that reside on your skin and coexist in harmony with your body. In contrast, “bad” bacteria are pathogenic and disease-causing and can cause infections and diseases. Both good and bad bacteria are always present in your body, and their numbers are just different for different people. However, the presence of “good” bacteria does not protect you from harmful germs. Moreover, even “good” bacteria in the wrong place can lead to serious illness.
Myth # 3: Skin antiseptics are the best way to kill germs
Antiseptics are only effective at killing harmful bacteria if they contain 60 to 95% alcohol. Alcohol can kill rhinovirus, herpes, HIV, influenza, hepatitis, fungus, and even tuberculosis. In fact, alcohol can kill up to 99.9% of all bacteria on the skin within 30 seconds. However, they are not suitable when your skin is heavily contaminated or covered in blood. In such cases, you must first thoroughly wash the wound with water and soap and then use an antiseptic, if necessary.
Myth # 4: Children get lice from insufficient personal hygiene
Unfortunately, this is a myth. Lice can develop even in those children who carefully monitor their personal hygiene. Lice are transmitted through direct head-to-head contact or clothing such as a hat, scarf, etc. Or through personal hygiene items such as combs, towels.
Myth # 5: Killing germs on your hands will lower your immunity
Your body is always covered with microorganisms, and you cannot get rid of them all. They really do benefit you by activating your immune system. Getting rid of germs that appear on your hands will not lower your immunity, but it will save you from some diseases.
Myth # 6: Bad breath isn’t necessarily caused by poor oral hygiene
And it is true. Bacteria in the mouth cause bad breath, but this does not mean you are not doing enough of your personal hygiene.
Dry mouth is one of the most common causes of bad breath. This is why many people may experience bad breath in the morning because saliva production slows down during sleep. Saliva acts as a mouthwash and contains compounds that kill bacteria. When there is not enough saliva, bacteria have more favorable conditions for growth and reproduction. All this leads to an unpleasant odor. In some cases, dry mouth can be caused by taking medications such as antihistamines, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, or diuretics.
Diseases of the gums and teeth are another common cause of bad breath.
Also read: 20 Things You Should Get Rid Of During Your Next Cleaning
How to properly clean your home?
It is known that cleaning is not a favorite pastime of most people. However, these few tips will help you make cleaning, if not more enjoyable, then certainly less annoying.
It is unnecessary to do spring cleaning when you are inundated with work or other important things. Remove only the most contaminated areas, and leave the rest for more free time.
Cleaning is an activity for the whole family. Make sure each family member has and fulfills their own household responsibilities. This will free up some of your time and instill a sense of responsibility in other family members.
Set aside time for cleaning yourself, free from other activities and distractions. This will help you quickly and efficiently cope with cleaning without being distracted by extraneous matters.
Keep order. The fewer things you leave out of place, the less you have to clean up.
Try not to miss scheduled cleaning. The more often you clean, the less time it will take each time.
Watch out for odors in your home. A ventilated room without unpleasant odors automatically appears cleaner. You can use commercial air fresheners or homemade options.
Be sure to lay down a rug before entering the apartment. This will help “catch” most of the dirt from the soles of your shoes even as you enter your home.
Even if you don’t like cleaning, try to make cleaning more enjoyable. Put on fiery and fun music, invite friends for help, and be sure to reward yourself for a job well done!
Adapted and translated by Wiki Avenue Staff
Sources: Today Lifestyle
