Students, athletes and parents are gearing up for the school year–which means lots of fun activities, new opportunities to learn, and experiences are on the way! It also means greater exposure to nasty germs. Schools are breeding grounds for germs that quickly spread between students and athletes. The good news is, with a few simple strategies and a powerful non-bleach disinfectant like Clear Gear, you can help protect your family from illness and keep everyone healthy and thriving.
Here are five tips for avoiding back-to-school germs.
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Teach Proper Handwashing Techniques
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs is with proper handwashing. Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently throughout the day, with warm water and soap. Promote handwashing for at least 20 seconds each time, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and hitting the locker room.
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Use Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is an excellent alternative when soap and water aren’t available. Pack a travel-sized bottle in your child’s backpack or gym bag and teach them how to use it effectively. Choose a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol for best results. Remind them not to use hand sanitizer as a replacement for handwashing.
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Promote the Use of Disinfectant
Teach kids to disinfect their backpacks, athletic gear, and shoes after school, as these items harbor germs and cause their spread. Spray an athletic gear disinfectant on shoes as soon as you get home and put them somewhere to dry, and then spray all other items. Using a bleach-free disinfectant like Clear Gear reduces the spread of germs at home and in school, without causing corrosion or damage to equipment and belongings.
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Encourage Healthy Habits
Healthy habits will boost your child’s immune system and reduce their risk of getting sick. Make sure they get adequate sleep for their age group, eat a balanced diet that features whole foods and lean proteins, and participate in regular physical activity for a boost to both mood and immunity. Promoting these habits will help your child develop a strong foundation for a healthy lifestyle.
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Teach Coughing and Sneezing Etiquette
Educate your child on proper coughing and sneezing etiquette to minimize the spread of germs to others. They should use a tissue to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and throw the tissue out immediately. When a tissue is not available, they can do the “Vampire Sneeze,” which is coughing or sneezing into the crook of their elbow instead of their hands. Hands should be washed immediately after coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.
The steps above–along with a non-bleach disinfectant like Clear Gear–will help protect your family from germs and illnesses. Stay proactive, and don’t let germs get in the way of learning and fun!
