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1998 SDA National Cleaning Survey
Key Research Findings

Americans today spend over 90% of their time indoors -- a fact that places added emphasis on the importance of maintaining a clean home environment -- or "home health."

"Just as people know they should eat right and exercise for reasons that go beyond physical appearance, they should also realize that cleaning regularly and practicing good personal hygiene can help keep them healthy," according to Peg Jordan, R.N., found er and editor of American Fitness Magazine.

A recent survey conducted by Roper Starch Worldwide Research for The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA) revealed that many Americans understand the connection between health and hygiene, but lack some key information that can help protect themselves and their families against the spread of some germs and allergens that can cause illnesses.

  • 91% of Americans understand that clean kitchen surfaces are very important to good health.
    Cleaning and disinfecting cutting boards and thoroughly washing utensils after each use, keeping surfaces free of food particles and grease in which bacteria can grow, wiping up spills, washing dishes regularly, and using clean sponges and dish cloths ar e essential to good kitchen hygiene.

    TIP: Launder sponges and dish cloths frequently, using liquid household bleach in the wash water, and allow the sponges and cloths to dry thoroughly between uses.

  • 88% of all Americans understand that clean bathroom surfaces are very important to good health.
    The high humidity of the bathroom plus its frequent use makes areas around the sink, toilet, shower and tub a haven for germs and allergens.

    TIP: Regular disinfection of sink areas. toilet bowls, tubs and showers can help keep germs from spreading.

  • Fewer than half (45%) of Americans believe that regular dusting is very important to their overall health.
    Household dust contributes to respiratory irritations and allergies. Regular dusting along with laundering bed linens, cleaning glass surfaces and vacuuming can help reduce allergy symptoms caused by dust.

    TIP: Use a clean, soft cloth sprayed with a dusting product to keep dust under control and remove soil that can damage finishes.

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