Think more than just pink this October

Think more than just pink this October

October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness month, is a very important month for Home Clean Heroes. So many of us are or have been personally affected by breast cancer, and as cleaning experts, we wanted to share our knowledge on how to best care for your loved ones. This is such an important role that often times doesn’t get talked about, since the focus is usually on how to detect breast cancer early on.  We’re here to provide tips for those of you taking care of someone with breast cancer so that you can provide them with a healthier and safer environment.

Reduce Exposure of Germs

Often times, a patient undergoing cancer treatment will have a compromised immune system, which is why it is so important to take precautions to help reduce exposure to germs. One of the most effective ways to reduce germs is by ensuring that everyone in the home washes their hands with warm water and soap, especially prior to coming into contact with the patient. This holds true for visitors as well. Gel hand sanitizers can be used when access to soap and water is not convenient. Washing your hands and using hand sanitizer should be second nature by now to prevent the spread of COVID, so this should be an easy practice to put into place.

Germs lay dormant in so many places around the home. When cleaning up around the house, pay extra attention to commonly shared surface areas, such as:

• Light switch plates
• Doorknobs
• Computer keyboard and mouse
• TV remote controls
• Phones (home phone and cell phones!)
• Cupboard handles
• Handrails
• Faucet and toilet handles

It’s not always second nature to regularly wipe down some of these surfaces, but by doing so you will drastically reduce the risk of infection for your friend or family member. If you find yourself busy with other responsibilities, set a reminder in your phone or write it down on the calendar to regularly clean these areas. Trust us, it will go a long way!

Keep Flowers A Safe Distance Away

While flowers are a thoughtful gift to give and can brighten someone’s day, it’s often best to not place them directly next to where the patient is resting. This is because plants themselves can shed and give off mold, and fresh cut flowers sitting in water can harbor bacteria. A stack of magazines, books or crossword puzzles are all great alternative gifts for a patient undergoing treatment. Not only are they rid of mold, but they will keep your friend or family occupied during radiation or chemotherapy as well.

Cleaning for a Reason

Often times, cleaning the home can be too much of a task for the patient and, sometimes, the caretaker. Home Clean Heroes is a proud partner of Cleaning for a Reason, a non-profit that provides complimentary house cleaning services to women undergoing treatment for any type of cancer. For more information on how you can nominate a someone in need for a free house cleaning, call Cleaning for a Reason at 877-377-33487.

And please feel free to call Home Clean Heroes at 844-439-4376 if you have any questions or concerns related to house cleaning for someone undergoing breast cancer treatment.