The easiest way to control germs in your home is absolutely free

This straightforward solution for keeping household germs at bay doesn't cost a penny. Can you spot it?

When it comes to tackling the spread of harmful germs at home, there are various steps you can take to keep your living spaces safe and sanitary.

Common measures, from regularly cleaning household surfaces with an antibacterial spray to thoroughly washing your hands, can all help defend against bacteria growth.

However, there’s another hassle-free way to tackle germs – and what’s more, it’s absolutely free. Simply opening the windows and doors to channel fresh air inside is proven to works wonders in creating a healthy living environment.

Why it's effective

Circulating fresh air through your home isn’t a new idea – in fact, it was championed by none other than Florence Nightingale herself.

While it might be tempting to keep windows shut tight to prevent germs from entering, by doing so, you’re creating a sealed space for bugs, bacteria and viruses to thrive.

Keeping windows closed also traps dust, smoke, allergens and other hidden hazards inside. Plus, a lack of ventilation can lead to a build-up of excess moisture – prime conditions for bacteria to multiply, which can even result in damp and mould.

Natural ventilation is a great way to flush out germs. Image: ronstik / Shutterstock

Opening your windows for around 20 minutes to one hour per day can be enough to give a much-needed health boost to your living conditions.

First and foremost, fresh air can lead to improved air quality and fresher scents throughout the house – and there’s a host of other health benefits too. For example, exposure to sunlight helps our bodies produce Vitamin D, a lack of which has been linked to depression and obesity.

Various studies have also shown that working in natural light helps boost energy levels and productivity, both vital when we’re working from home. There’s plenty of evidence to suggest that natural light enhances overall mood levels, too.

The evidence

Research conducted by Imperial College London shows that this low-tech solution can help prevent the spread of airborne infections. Opening windows was found to maximise natural ventilation, reducing the risk of airborne germs when compared with mechanical ventilation setups.

According to the study, which was carried out in eight Peru hospitals, opening windows and doors provided median ventilation of 28 air changes per hour, while mechanically ventilated rooms underwent only 12.

Fend off airborne infections by letting in the light. Image: Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Another study by the University of Oregon found that sunshine can also be classed as an effective weapon against germs. The results showed that in dark rooms, bacteria were able to reproduce at almost double the rate of sun-soaked areas.

So, as well as having a positive impact on mood and wellbeing, we know that sunshine can help keep germs in check too.

Stay squeaky clean

While opening windows is an easy way to reduce germs in your home, it's still important to clean regularly. Aim to wipe down surfaces throughout the home daily, using household disinfectant or antibacterial wipes – ideally, select a product that states that it will kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria.

The kitchen sink is proven to be one of the biggest germ hotspots, so pay special attention to cleaning this area (including the drain, taps and basin) with a bleach solution up to twice a week.

Regularly used gadgets can be a hotbed for germs in the home too. Image: file404 / Shutterstock

Often, frequently handled objects such as phones, TV remotes and computer keyboards attract a significant number of germs too. Give these a regular wipe down with an antibacterial wipe or a gadget-safe cleaning product.

Image: S_Photo / Shutterstock