The Importance of Eco-Friendly Sanitization for High Touch Points in Protecting Your Health
- c2janitorial
- Nov 21
- 2 min read
Every day, we come into contact with countless surfaces that many others have touched before us. These surfaces, known as high touch points, include door handles, light switches, elevator buttons, and handrails. They can harbor harmful germs and bacteria that pose risks to our health. Proper sanitization of these areas is essential to reduce the spread of illness. Choosing eco-friendly chemicals for this task not only protects your health but also benefits the environment.
What Are High Touch Points and Why Do They Matter?
High touch points are surfaces that people frequently touch throughout the day. These include:
Door knobs and handles
Light switches
Elevator buttons
Faucet handles
Shared electronic devices like keyboards and touchscreens
Because many people touch these surfaces, they can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. When you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your face, mouth, or food, you risk introducing harmful germs into your body.
Research shows that viruses like the flu and common cold can survive on surfaces for hours or even days. This makes regular cleaning and sanitization of high touch points a critical step in preventing the spread of infections.
The Health Risks of Poor Sanitization
Ignoring proper sanitization can lead to increased transmission of illnesses such as:
Influenza
Norovirus
Common cold
COVID-19
Staphylococcus infections
These illnesses can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health complications, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
In public spaces, workplaces, and homes, contaminated high touch points can become hotspots for outbreaks. This not only affects individual health but also impacts communities and economies through lost workdays and increased healthcare costs.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Chemicals for Sanitization?
Traditional sanitizers often contain harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or synthetic fragrances. While effective at killing germs, these substances can cause:
Skin irritation and allergies
Respiratory problems from inhaling fumes
Environmental pollution when washed down drains
Eco-friendly sanitizers use natural ingredients such as plant-based extracts, essential oils, and biodegradable compounds. These alternatives offer several advantages:
Safe for humans: They reduce the risk of skin and respiratory irritation.
Environmentally responsible: They break down naturally without harming water sources or wildlife.
Effective: Many natural ingredients have antimicrobial properties proven to kill or inhibit germs.
For example, tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil are known for their antibacterial and antiviral effects. Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are natural disinfectants commonly used in eco-friendly cleaning products.
Benefits Beyond Health
Choosing eco-friendly sanitizers supports broader goals:
Protecting ecosystems: Reducing chemical runoff helps preserve aquatic life and soil health.
Reducing plastic waste: Many eco-friendly brands use recyclable or biodegradable packaging.
Supporting sustainable businesses: Buying green products encourages companies to prioritize environmental responsibility.
By making conscious choices, you contribute to a healthier planet while safeguarding your own well-being.
Practical Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Environment
Place hand sanitizer stations near high touch points to encourage hand hygiene.
Educate family members or coworkers about the importance of regular sanitization.
Use washable cleaning cloths and avoid single-use plastics.
Ventilate rooms well to reduce airborne germs and chemical buildup.
Monitor and replace eco-friendly products as needed to maintain effectiveness.
These small actions add up to a safer, cleaner environment for everyone.
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