The act of cleaning is a common task that is often associated with everyone. It is primarily done to improve the comfort and safety of one’s home by reducing dust and germs. However, have you ever considered if others clean in the same way as you do? To satisfy your curiosity, here are 10 statistics on household cleaning that may either reassure you or prompt you to question if you are cleaning enough.
Looking to shake up your cleaning routine? Get ready to be shocked by these 10 jaw-dropping house cleaning stats. Whether you find cleaning to be a dreaded chore or a therapeutic activity, these statistics will make you rethink the dirt and grime lurking in your home.
Did you know that the average kitchen sink contains more bacteria than a toilet seat? Or that the kitchen sponge is actually the dirtiest item in your home? These eye-opening revelations are just the tip of the dirty iceberg.
Before you turn a blind eye to your cleaning duties, consider this: households with clutter are more likely to experience stress and anxiety. Yes, those piles of laundry and stacks of paper could be affecting your mental well-being.
10 Eye Opening House Cleaning Stats
1. Australians mildly ‘dislike’ Cleaning
Let us begin by addressing the following question: Is Cleaning a likable activity, above all other statistics?
According to a scale with eleven points measuring individuals’ attitudes towards cleaning, Australians were not hesitant to express their mild aversion towards it, as evidenced by an average rating of 5.6.
In addition, a majority of 79% of Australians engage in cleaning their homes on a weekly basis, spending an average of 1.9 hours per session.
2. Women shoulder the house cleaning
In a culture that has historically linked women with household tasks, it may not come as a surprise that this remains the norm. However, given the recent advancements in women’s empowerment, it would be reasonable to assume that domestic responsibilities would now be shared equally between both genders.
Regrettably, this is not the situation. According to research in Australia, women spend six times more time than men on washing clothes and more than three times as much time on cleaning the house
Fellas, there is a significant amount of ground to cover and catch up on.
The market for cleaning services is expanding.
3. Cleaning services is a growing market
The Australian household cleaners industry generated a total revenue of $307 million in 2021, with an anticipated annual growth of 2.58%.
In terms of enterprises, there are currently 35,248 registered cleaning companies in Australia, which employ 157,500 workers and generate a total revenue of $12 billion.
The nation is expected to see a rise in these figures as it strives to bounce back from the repercussions of the COVID19 outbreak. As this market continues to expand, your professional cleaning requirements will not be neglected.
4. Cleaning products
On average, a typical household in Australia owns around 6 to 7 different cleaning products such as disinfectants, detergents, sponges, and various others.
While keeping your home clean is important, it’s equally essential to consider the environmental impact of the cleaning products you use. Many conventional cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can pollute the air and waterways. These chemicals not only pose a risk to the environment but also to your health. Thankfully, there are now eco-friendly alternatives available that are just as effective in cleaning and disinfecting your home. By opting for environmentally friendly cleaning products, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
5. Cleaning is calorie-burning
According to weight, an individual weighing 150 lbs can potentially burn 100-300 calories/hour while engaging in cleaning or household tasks, with the specific amount varying depending on the activity. For example, mopping can result in a loss of 42 calories, while sweeping or vacuuming can burn 37 calories.
In the following points, we will delve into some statistics regarding the individuals, timing, reasons, and methods of Cleaning. These numbers are bound to motivate you to improve your cleaning techniques.
6. Keyboards are dirtier than toilet seats
According to research conducted in the United States , computer keyboards have been found to harbor 400 times more bacteria compared to toilet seats. These bacteria can even include the drug-resistant staphylococcus aureus, and can remain on keyboards for up to 24 hours.
The majority of these germs are most likely transmitted through unwashed hands, particularly when the keyboard is shared. Therefore, it is important to remember to clean and sanitize your keyboard during your next house cleaning.
7. Germs breed even in refrigerators
Many individuals have the misconception that germs exclusively flourish in warm environments. This belief is logical, as the majority of bacteria thrive in temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, also known as the danger zone. As a result, many homeowners tend to overlook cleaning their refrigerators when tidying up their homes.
However, as reported by the 2013 NSF International Household Germ Study, germs also thrive in dark and damp conditions, such as our reliable refrigerators. Surprisingly, the meat compartment in refrigerators was one of the 36% of items that showed traces of e. coli – a type of bacteria that is known to cause diarrhea, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia.
It is about time for you to clean your refrigerator and give it the proper care it needs.
8. Your toothbrush holders are not safe
Moist. Tartar-laden. Gloomy.
The toothbrush holder in your home is a breeding ground for germs, with a staggering 2,465,876 microorganisms per 10 sq. cm. This makes it the most heavily contaminated item in the bathroom.
The bathroom is not the least clean location.
According to a 2011 NSF study, the bathroom is commonly believed to be the dirtiest place due to us cleaning ourselves in it. However, the study discovered that it is actually the kitchen that harbors the most germs. The study identified the top three kitchen items with the highest concentration of coliforms.
1. Sponge/rag for washing dishes: 77%
2. The kitchen sink accounts for 45% of the total.
3. The percentage of countertop is 32%.
9. The bathroom is not the dirtiest place
According to a 2011 NSF study, the bathroom is commonly believed to be the dirtiest place due to us cleaning ourselves in it. However, the study discovered that it is actually the kitchen that harbors the most germs. The study identified the top three kitchen items with the highest concentration of coliforms.
1. Sponge/rag for washing dishes: 77%
2. The kitchen sink accounts for 45% of the total.
3. The percentage of countertop is 32%.
10. You sleep with mites!
Dust mites have a unique tendency to adhere to surfaces, with beds being one of their preferred surfaces. It is estimated that anywhere between 100,000 to 10 million of these tiny creatures make their permanent home in what should be a safe sleeping area. In fact, approximately 80% of households have a notable presence of mites in their beds.
Despite not being parasitic, mites can still cause harm due to their minuscule size and the allergens produced from their fecal pellets. These substances can potentially trigger respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks.
Did these statistics leave you feeling unsettled or reassured? Your response to this inquiry will determine if it is necessary to reconsider your cleaning methods.
After discovering these shocking house cleaning statistics, it’s clear that maintaining a clean and healthy home is crucial. Regular cleaning not only eliminates dirt and germs but also promotes better physical and mental well-being. Whether you choose to clean your home yourself or hire professional services, committing to a consistent cleaning routine is key. Additionally, consider the environmental impact of the cleaning products you use and opt for eco-friendly alternatives whenever possible. By taking action and prioritizing cleanliness, you can create a cleaner, healthier, and happier home for you and your loved ones. So, don’t wait any longer, grab that mop and start transforming your home today!
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