Ways to reduce flu germs at home

LANCASTER, Pa., Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Many are awaiting the H1N1 flu vaccine but U.S. steam cleaning experts say keeping homes germ-free can help guard against illness.

The Haan Corp., which specializes in steam cleaning products, say steaming home items to 212 degrees Fahrenheit kills 99.9 percent of bacteria just by using water.

To reduce germs at home during flu season, Haan suggests:

-- Blow-dry hair before going to bed because falling asleep with wet hair can create a pillow case full of germs and dust mites.

-- Clean bacteria off toys and wash floors where children play.

-- Logging long hours on the home computer with dirty hands can pass germs from one family member to another. Wipe down computers with sanitizing cloths.

-- A pile of wet hats, gloves and scarves left in a heap by the front door is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, but a handheld steamer can blast away bacteria.

-- Keep hand sanitizers strategically placed in each room of the house for easy accessibility and provide each family member with a travel sized bottle to carry in their purse, backpack or briefcase.

-- Rid mattresses of dust mites by steaming them.