Colds and flu can make even the healthiest among us feel knocked down, but staying well doesn’t just come down to good handwashing habits. Believe it or not, your clothes and household fabrics can play a sneaky role in harboring germs. When you’re wrapping up in your favorite scarf or tossing a comforter on the couch, are you sure it’s as clean as it looks?
Here’s what you need to know to tackle germs in your wardrobe and home this season, with a little help from Classic Cleaners.
How Germs Hide in Everyday Fabrics
From crowded commutes to dinner spills at home, fabrics like coats, scarves, gloves, and bedding can hold onto bacteria, viruses, and allergens. Once trapped, these microbes can linger for days or even weeks, depending on the type of fabric.
Research backs this up. A recent study found that COVID-19 can survive on soft surfaces like fabrics for up to a few days. Meanwhile, bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus can remain viable on clothing for weeks, especially in warm, damp conditions.
High-touch items like winter accessories or frequently used blankets are particularly guilty of this. For example:
- Outerwear: Coats and scarves are regularly exposed to public surfaces like bus seats or shopping carts, making them prime targets.
- Bedding: Your sheets and comforters can collect allergens like dust mites and pet dander, which can exacerbate respiratory issues during flu season.
- Reusable Bags: These everyday items are often neglected when it comes to cleaning but can harbor contaminants from groceries, public counters, and car seats.
These hidden germs don’t just stop at causing illness. They can spread around your home, sticking to furniture and other textiles. Regular cleaning is an essential part of protecting your health and keeping your environment truly clean.
Why Professional Cleaning Works Better
When germs settle deep into fabric fibers, a quick toss in the washing machine isn’t always enough. Home washing can only do so much—especially for heavy fabrics like coats or delicate items like silk. That’s where professional cleaning makes a difference.
At Classic Cleaners, we use high temperatures, sanitizing solutions, and specialized techniques to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and allergens. Steam cleaning is particularly effective at killing germs, while advanced solutions target tough spots without damaging delicate materials.
Items like bedding, scarves, and coats benefit most from this deep-clean approach. Plus, with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic cleaning options available, you can feel good knowing your fabrics are not only clean but safe for sensitive skin.
Practical Tips to Stay Healthy and Germ-Free
During flu and cold season, you’ll want to adopt daily habits that reduce your exposure. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy while keeping your wardrobe and home fresh.
- Wash Hands Frequently: This is your first line of defense. Washing your hands regularly prevents viruses from transferring to fabrics, doorknobs, and other surfaces.
- Clean High-Touch Fabrics Regularly: Items like coats, scarves, gloves, and reusable bags come into contact with public surfaces every day. Make it a habit to have them professionally cleaned at least once a season.
- Rotate and Air Out Your Wardrobe: Give items time to breathe between uses. Hanging clothes in a well-ventilated area after wear helps reduce bacterial buildup.
- Disinfect Household Fabrics: Bedding, throw blankets, and even decorative pillows should be cleaned often during flu season. Professional cleaning can sanitize these items more effectively than standard home washing.
- Store Clothes Properly: After cleaning, store clothes in a dry, clean environment to prevent bacteria and allergens from resettling. Use breathable garment bags to protect delicate or rarely used items.
- Avoid Overloading Laundry Machines: Overcrowding your washer reduces its ability to clean effectively. For heavily soiled or large items, professional cleaning is a better option.
A Healthier Season Starts with Classic Cleaners
Staying healthy during flu season doesn’t have to be complicated. By keeping your fabrics clean and incorporating a few healthy habits, you can minimize your exposure to viruses and create a cleaner, safer environment for yourself and your family.
When it’s time for a deeper clean, Classic Cleaners is here to help. From sanitizing your wardrobe to refreshing household fabrics, we make it easy to keep your items fresh, clean, and ready for whatever the season brings—all without the hassle.
Visit us at Classic Cleaners to learn more about our dry cleaning pick-up and delivery services in Indianapolis. And for more tips on fabric care or seasonal cleaning advice, explore our blog or stop by one of our locations today!
