In this time of uncertainty, out of all the places – our home is considered the safest. Despite the stated fact, we should still practice preventive measures like cleaning or disinfecting our homes. It also includes everything that we are using from time to time – like our appliances.

The Enhanced Community Quarantine was implemented for more than a month already and it made us use our appliances more often than usual. The reason why keeping them clean and sanitized is something we should highly consider. According to a study published in March 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 that is now causing a pandemic is more stable on plastics and stainless steel. These two are the most common appliance surfaces at home.

XTREME Appliances recommends the following tips on how to clean and maintain some of your home appliances to keep you and your loved ones healthy:

Wipe off the dust from TV and sanitize your remote

Dust is a common allergen that may cause an allergic reaction when you inhale them. That is why it is best to wipe off dust in your home regularly, especially in the common areas like your living room. Before cleaning the TV, turn it off, let it cool down for a while then unplug. Start by wiping the edges or frames of the TV with a slightly damped microfiber cloth or soft cloth, followed by the screen. Make sure not to press hard on it as it may cause damage.

Do not forget to clean and sanitize the remote control! Remote controls get dirty because of several hands and fingers that have touched it. Remove the battery, face it upside down, and tap the remote against your palm so the debris can fall. Wipe the surface and buttons with alcohol-based wipes or a cloth damped in at least 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Avoid air conditioner filters to get clogged and dirty

Having a clean air conditioner at home will not only give you practical benefits like energy savings and the unit’s improved efficiency. Keeping it clean can also help maintain good health. A poorly maintained air conditioner can cause itchy eyes, headaches, and even respiratory problems.

Depending on the frequency of usage, cleaning can be on a daily, monthly or seasonal basis. Cleaning can be through a professional cleaner or even yourself. Start by removing the trim panel or frame, remove dust and dirt from the cooling fins using a fin comb, remove visible build-ups or debris using a vacuum, let it dry, then assemble it back.

Here’s an XTREME reminder: Do not use your air conditioner 24/7! Leaving it overworked may cause damage to the compressor and condenser. If left unattended, it may leave you with no choice but to replace it. Who would want a damaged air conditioner while on ECQ, right?

Your food storage also known as “refrigerator” should be kept clean

All appliances found in one of the dirtiest parts of your home – your kitchen – should be clean at all times. The refrigerator regularly acts as storage for your fresh meat and vegetable groceries and even cooked food. A clean refrigerator can help keep food fresh and keep food-borne illnesses away.

Make it a habit to check stored goods in the refrigerator weekly. Throw away expired consumables and keep the remaining in proper storage. Before you start cleaning your refrigerator, remove all food from the fridge, take out shelves and drawers and wash them with dish soap. Wipe the interior but avoid using strong-scented soap to avoid having problems with removing the scent in the fridge that may be absorbed by the food. As an alternative to soap, you can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove stains. Dry it off with a clean dry cloth before returning the shelves, drawers and stored goods. Make sure to wash raw food from the supermarket and allocations from your local government unit before storing them in your refrigerator. It is always better to be sure than sorry! Clean the exteriors using a soft cloth and dishwashing soap mixed with water. Then, “rinse” the excess soap by using a damp cloth.

Here’s an XTREME tip: Eliminate foul odor and maintain it smelling fresh by putting activated charcoal or open baking soda.

While our homes act as our haven in this present situation, there is nothing wrong with ensuring that we are free from any sickness even indoors. Our frontliners are working hard to save each life while risking theirs. Let’s do them a favor. Stay at home to avoid the risk of getting the virus. Let’s stay healthy.

Shares Adrian Lim, XTREME Appliances General Manager

By following these tips on how to clean and maintain some of your home appliances, you can now assure that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy under your roof. Stay safe and healthy!