NEW YORK — The average person considers their home to be “completely clean” for only 11 days of the year, new research reveals. A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. homeowners and renters finds it takes them an average of five days to actually start cleaning and sanitizing their home after they first decide it needs a makeover.
Respondents say they spend an average of six days per year doing that cleaning. To that end, 68 percent will devote an entire day to cleaning and sanitizing a specific room in their home.
For 63 percent of respondents, that room is the kitchen. Other rooms people spend a full day in include the bathroom (57%), living room (57%), bedroom (47%), and home office (47%).
When it comes to cleaning and sanitizing, the average person has six items on their list. The top items? Rugs/carpets (68%), floors (63%), and clothing (57%). Meanwhile, appliances (30%), countertops (29%), and shelves (24%) are less likely to be dusted and wiped.
How to prevent spreading germs at home
Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Lysol for the launch of Lysol Air Sanitizer, which kills airborne viruses and bacteria, the poll also reveals people’s perceptions about how bacteria and viruses may affect them. The research discusses what precautions they take when cleaning and sanitizing their homes before hosting guests to help minimize their chances of spreading illness-causing germs.
When hosting guests, people take a number of precautions to help stop the spread of bacteria and viruses by cleaning and sanitizing. Most notably, encouraging the use of hand sanitizer (61%) and using disinfectant sprays (56%) and wipes (51%).
“Over the past few years, people have become more conscious of the viruses and bacteria that we encounter in everyday life, and preventing the spread of both starts in the home,” says R&D Senior Associate at Lysol Anthony Kevek, in a statement. “It’s not just about having a home that appears clean or smells great. Finding the right products with antimicrobial properties can help kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria, whether in the air or on surfaces, and provide an added layer of protection when preparing to host guests.”
Nearly half (48%) worry about airborne bacteria when someone is sick and 41 percent are concerned while hosting guests. But only 22 percent have it top of mind while attending a large public gathering such as a concert or sports game. Additionally, just 20 percent think about it when eating out at restaurants or cafes.
On average, respondents are concerned about catching airborne viruses and bacteria when at least five other people share the room with them. And 61 percent think most bacteria and viruses can make them sick.
“It’s important to take proactive measures and keep your home protected from bacteria and viruses throughout the year, whether or not you or someone in your home has recently been sick,” adds Kevek. “By doing so, you can help to prevent the spread of illness-causing pathogens, like cold, influenza and coronavirus, to you and your loved ones while keeping a sanitary environment year-round.”
Survey methodology:
This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 homeowners/renters who clean was commissioned by Lysol on Aug. 1, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).
Article brightened my day.
At 82 years old, almost 83 and living alone, I am so slow now that article is applicable to me.
Even the trip to the apartment’s dumpster is a safari for me about two days per week.
Cannot afford a robot to clean floors.
Bleach and antibacterial sprays are a necessity.
Scrubbing bathroom is exhausting but still manageable.
Have not had common flu. pneumonia, or Covid.
Maintaining a clean home is a universal challenge, and this insightful article sheds light on the average person’s cleaning habits. One tip I’ve found helpful is designating a specific day each month for a quick “maintenance clean.” Tackling smaller tasks regularly prevents the buildup of dirt and makes the deep-cleaning days more manageable. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you! Thanks!
This study highlights a surprising reality about home cleanliness, emphasizing the gap between perception and practice. It’s intriguing to see how the average person prioritizes different areas of their home for cleaning and the overall limited time homes are considered ‘completely clean.’ The focus on using antimicrobial products to maintain a sanitary environment, especially when hosting guests, underscores the ongoing concern for health and wellness in the household. This research could serve as a wake-up call for many to reevaluate their cleaning routines and the effectiveness of their efforts to maintain a clean and healthy living environment.