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Don't overdo spring cleaning

Don't go overboard with spring cleaning, cautions Donna Duberg, assistant professor of clinical laboratory science at Saint Louis University.

"Ask yourself the question: How contaminated is my house?" she said. "If it is just everyday dirt, then simply dust, vacuum and wipe off surfaces with hot soapy water, which can kill some germs. It's always important to get the dirt off first.

"Then move on to those specific areas of the house like the kitchen counters and bathroom sinks that may need a diluted bleach solution to kill off pesky bacteria. Other than that, wash your hands often and just relax."

Duberg says you actually can make yourself sick from cleaning by being too vigilant. So do this:

Consider planet-friendly "green" cleaners. With its high-acetic content, white distilled vinegar is a gentle and effective fighter against many types of bacteria.
Whip out the vacuum cleaner to suck up dust bunnies.
Think about hiring an expert to clean your air conditioner before you turn it on to prevent bacteria and molds that may be living in the unit from being sent into your house.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and keep them from becoming chapped.
Keep cleaning products in their original containers and out of reach of young children.
Instead of using bleach straight from the bottle, dilute it to a concentration of one part bleach in nine parts of water. Pour that mixture in a spray bottle and spritz off germ-friendly places like the kitchen counter or bathtub. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes and then wipe clean.
Follow the label directions in using cleaning products. For instance, instructions on a can of mold and mildew remover will tell you to work in a well-ventilated area with an open window because of fumes that can damage your lungs, eyes and skin.