Back-to-School Germ Patrol: How to Keep Illness Out of Your Home This Fall

As backpacks hit the floor and lunchboxes get unpacked, there’s one thing many families don’t prepare for during back-to-school season: the influx of germs. Between classroom surfaces, shared supplies, and busy schedules, this time of year can bring a spike in colds, flu, and other viruses that follow kids—and parents—home.

Whether you’re in Knoxville, Sumner County, or anywhere in between, a few smart cleaning habits can go a long way in keeping your home healthy and your family feeling their best. Here’s how to stay ahead of back-to-school germs this fall.

1. Clean and Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces

Think about how many hands touch light switches, doorknobs, remotes, and faucets every day. These high-traffic areas are hotspots for germ buildup.

• Wipe them down regularly with a disinfectant
  
• Don’t forget fridge handles, backpack hooks, and drawer pulls
  
• Look for EPA-approved, kid-safe disinfectants
  

At Brite Spot Cleaning, these are top priorities in our standard and deep clean services.

2. Keep Backpacks, Lunchboxes & Shoes Contained

Everything your child brings home can carry germs, including their shoes and school gear. Try this:

• Create a drop zone at your entryway
  
• Wipe down backpacks and lunchboxes
  
• Remove shoes at the door to keep outdoor dirt and bacteria from spreading
  

Little daily changes like these help minimize how far germs travel into your living space.

3. Establish a Simple Weekly Cleaning Routine

Between practices, homework, and busy mornings, daily cleaning can fall by the wayside. That’s where a solid weekly cleaning schedule comes in handy.

• Tidy up bedrooms and bathrooms
  
• Wipe down kitchen counters and appliance handles
  
• Sanitize frequently used items like electronics and water bottles
  

Feeling overwhelmed? This is the perfect time to schedule a recurring cleaning with Brite Spot. Our flexible plans help families in all kinds of homes stay on track—without adding more to your to-do list.

4. Don’t Forget Soft Surfaces

Bedding, couches, and rugs might look clean, but they can trap allergens, dust mites, and viruses.

• Wash sheets and pillowcases weekly in hot water
  
• Vacuum fabric furniture regularly (especially if you have pets)
  
• Use fabric-safe sanitizing sprays for non-washables
  

This is especially helpful during allergy season and after anyone in your household has been sick.

5. Encourage Germ-Smart Habits

Your cleaning routine matters, but so do the habits you build with your family. A few easy reminders:

• Wash hands as soon as kids get home
  
• Avoid sharing cups, snacks, or school supplies
  
• Cover coughs and sneezes properly
  
• Wipe down phones, tablets, and water bottles often
  

Good hygiene paired with consistent cleaning? That’s the winning combo for a healthier home.

6. Refresh Your Home After Sick Days

After illness hits your home, a reset is key. Disinfect the usual suspects—light switches, remotes, bathrooms—but also:

• Swap out toothbrushes
  
• Wash towels, bedding, and blankets
  
• Open windows to air out bedrooms
  

If you don’t have time or energy, a one-time deep clean from a trusted service (hi, that’s us!) can make all the difference.

Keep Your Home Healthier This Fall Without the Extra Stress

Between school drop-offs, grocery runs, and the million other things on your plate, it’s easy for cleaning to take a back seat. But this season, staying ahead of germs can mean fewer sick days, less stress, and a happier home.

Whether you’re based in Knoxville, Sumner County, or nearby, Brite Spot Cleaning is here to help. We offer family-focused, professional cleaning services to keep your space safe, spotless, and ready for whatever fall brings.

Let us handle the germs so you can enjoy the season.