Personal and Household Hygiene

Personal hygiene - product photo

Some of the routine things we do (or don’t do) every day matter more to our health than we may think.

The benefits of good personal and household hygiene are real. You feel better! And you are healthier too. Did you know handwashing reduces the risk of respiratory infections? Or that daily brushing and flossing your teeth avoids painful cavities and toothaches and seriously reduces bad breath? 

Since the start of the semester, which of the following hygiene issues have you dealt with?

Personal

  • Dental cavities
  • Athlete’s foot
  • Cold/flu
  • Body odor
  • Other?

Environment

  • Pests/ants/bed bugs
  • Smelly room
  • Roommate stress due to hygiene issues

Daily, weekly and semesterly hygiene activities 

What should I do everyday?

  • Brush your teeth two or more times per day. Floss once a day.
  • Always wash hands after toileting and when touching food.
  • Shower daily and wear shower sandals in the shower.
  • Clean up, throw away, and store food that could develop foodborne bacteria and could attract bugs and rodents.

What should I do weekly?

  • Clean all bed items, towels, clothes, room, and bathroom regularly.
  • Take out trash and recycling.
  • Kept up roommate/housemate agreements about cleaning our space.
  • Clean room, bathroom and areas used frequently; sweep and vacuum.
  • Assess your hygiene and set goals for upcoming week

What should I do semesterly?

  • Know and stock up on your resources (e.g. information, supplies) for when you’re busy studying for midterms, sick or have problematic situations/emergencies, etc.
  • Be up to date with ALL vaccines. 
  • Do self-check and get professional periodic screenings and exams. 
  • Create roommate agreements that support personal and household hygiene. Check in monthly to give and receive feedback.

Resources