This trend has actually increased how much cleaning is going on in homes across the nation.  Trying to find quick and inexpensive ways to keep up with the extra cleaning prompted the ladies at Mom Central to get together with the MommyDocs and come up with a list of 5 tips to keep your family safe and your home cleaner during your summer staycation (I’ll list the tips below for you).

Many of the tips for keeping your home clean are quick and easy, something any mom can appreciate!  I too am finding that as we stay home more this summer, it is imperative that they boys help clean up around the house and not leave little piles everywhere (which they seem to be very quick about doing).

• Staying Safe at BBQs. According to a recent survey, 70 percent of Moms are cooking more at home and many are likely switching up their meal routine with an outdoor BBQ. Make sure your kids have a safe BBQ experience by keeping them away from the flames and any sharp knives. Also, don’t forget to check that your child’s hamburger is fully cooked. Always keep a thermometer on hand to be sure all food has reached the appropriate inside temperature.
• Keep the Pool Cool and Clean. If your kids love to spend hot afternoons in kiddie pools, you know the importance of cleaning the pool area. Dump out water after each session, and keep the pool clean by disinfecting it with a solution of ¾ cup bleach* to one gallon of water. Don’t forget to rinse well and dry thoroughly after each cleaning (never leave any water in the pool). Be sure to always supervise children when they are in or around any water. (* Always remember to read and follow precautions and usage directions before using cleaning products)
• Staying Healthy and Hydrated. Spending time in the heat means kids will be more prone to becoming dehydrated. Remind kids to take frequent rest/drink breaks in the shade when playing outside and try to avoid activity during peak sun hours. Encourage fluids before, during, and after outside activities.
• Having Peace of Mind at Playgrounds. Sometimes just getting out of the house is the best way to keep it clean, but before letting kids loose at the playground, ensure the safety of the equipment. Swing seats and slides can really heat up in the sun – test them out before your kids hop on to avoid burns. Be sure the playground surface is composed of a soft material to help prevent injury. All playground equipment should be routinely checked for any broken or loose parts. As always, adult supervision is a must at all times!
• Saving on Spills. Spending extra time around the house, especially with kids, often means more spills to clean up. Synthetic sponges and kitchen cloths can start to smell and carry bacteria, but you don’t have to toss them out after a few uses. One option to reduce bacteria is to sanitize sponges and dishrags by soaking them in a bleach solution (¾ cup of bleach* to a gallon of water) for 5 minutes in the sink. Don’t forget to rinse and dry when done. A wet sponge can also be microwaved to get rid of bacteria. (* Always remember to read and follow precautions and usage directions before using cleaning products)

So, as you plan your fun summer activities, be sure to use these tips to keep it safer, cleaner and healthier!

Here are some actions you can take to reduce your risks of skin cancer:

• The sun’s peak ultraviolet (UV) strength is from 10 AM to 4 PM. If at all possible, avoid non-protected exposure especially during these hours.
• If you must go out during the peak hours, wear a light-weight, long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat to help protect your skin.
• Put on sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside. The most effective sunscreens have an SPF rating of 30 or more. If you plan to remain outside, reapply sunscreen every two hours.
• Pay attention to your skin. Check the pigmentation as well as the size and shape of any visible moles. Note any changes on a piece of paper, and then contact your doctor if you are concerned about them.

Teach your children at a young age about the importance of wearing sunscreen every single time they go outside.  In our family, we liken it to wearing a seatbelt in the car, it takes just a moment to put on, but could save your life (or at the very least a miserable week recovering from a badly burned back!).

Pediatricians recommend that babies less than six months old be kept in light-weight long-sleeved shirts and pants if they have to go out in the sun. Hats and baby sunglasses will protect their eyes. Most sunscreens are not recommended for infants under 6 months so generally keeping them out of the sun is the best approach. If you must apply sunscreen, talk to your pediatrician and read the labels carefully.

Everyone in your family, no matter their age, should wear sunscreen whenever they plan to be outside for more than 30 minutes.

What should you look for when purchasing sunscreen?

• Choose one that provides both UVA and UVB protection.
• Match the sunscreen to the activity. If you’re going to be swimming, use one that is waterproof or water-resistant.
• The higher the sun protection factor (SPF), the more you’ll be protected.
• Find and use only those sunscreens that carry the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal of approval.

Playing in the sun can be a fun and healthy event for your family. When they wear sunscreen, the risks of uncomfortable sunburn and even worse, melanoma are minimal. Just remember to reapply often and follow these sunscreen tips for your entire family.

*Source: Melanoma.org