Remote and hybrid working have become a state of modern life, with nearly 41% of UK workers splitting their time between home and the office. While this shift offers flexibility, it also means you need to take charge of your work hygiene.
Whether you’re working from a home office or commuting part-time, keeping yourself and your workspace clean is key to staying productive and healthy. Here’s how you can create a hygienic work routine which supports both physical and mental well-being.
Why Does Work Hygiene Matter?
Let’s face it, your workspace has a direct impact on how you feel and perform. A cluttered or unhygienic setup can make you feel stressed, overwhelmed and even more prone to illness. Good hygiene isn’t just about washing your hands, it’s about setting yourself up for success every single day.
When you take care of your hygiene, you’re not just protecting yourself, you’re creating an environment where you can thrive. It’s all about small consistent actions which help you feel in control.
Why Should You Wash Your Hands?
Think about how many times you touch your keyboard, your phone and even your face during the day. It’s no surprise that hands are one of the biggest culprits for spreading germs.
- Wash Your Hands Often: Use warm water and soap, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Focus on doing this after meals, bathroom breaks and anytime you’ve been outside.
- Keep Hand Sanitiser Handy: Sometimes, a sink isn’t available. A bottle of sanitiser with 60% alcohol is your best friend when you’re on the go.
- Stop Touching Your Face: Yes, it’s a hard habit to break but reducing face-touching can prevent germs from entering your body through your eyes, nose or mouth.
Make it easy by keeping these hygiene essentials within arm’s reach, whether you’re at home or in the office.
Why Should You Keep Your Workspace Clean?
Your workspace is more than just a desk, it’s your productivity zone. Keeping it clean isn’t just about appearances. It is about protecting your health and creating an environment where you can focus.
- Wipe it Down Daily: High-touch surfaces such as your desk, keyboard and mouse can harbour bacteria. Use antibacterial wipes or sprays to give them a quick clean each day.
- Declutter Often: Papers, pens and coffee cups can pile up fast. Take five minutes at the end of each day to tidy up and start fresh tomorrow.
- Freshen the Air: A well-ventilated space or a light air freshener can make your workspace feel inviting.
A clean desk isn’t just practical, it’s a productivity booster.
Why is Personal Hygiene Important?
Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can ignore personal hygiene at work. How you present yourself has a massive impact on your mind set.
- Start with a Shower: A quick rinse in the morning helps you wake up and feel energised for the day ahead.
- Wear Clean, Comfortable Clothes: Opt for fresh and breathable fabrics which make you feel confident.
- Don’t Skip Grooming: Whether it’s brushing your teeth or taming bedhead, these small habits can instantly put you in a more professional, focused state of mind.
How Many Germs Live on Your Tech?
If you’re like most remote workers, your devices are your life line. However, did you know the average keyboard can harbour 20,000 times more bacteria than a toilet seat!
- Wipe Screens and Keyboards Weekly: Use a high-quality microfibre cloth from this website – https://www.microfibrecloth.co.uk/microfibre-cloths-c43 and electronic-safe cleaner to keep germs at bay.
- Clean Earbuds or Headphones: These can accumulate wax and bacteria over time, so give them a gentle clean regularly.
- Use Keyboard Covers: They’re a lifesaver when it comes to catching crumbs and dust, making cleanup easier.
By keeping your devices clean, you’ll not only protect your health but also extend the life of your tech. It is also an important part of maintaining personal hygiene at work.
Is Mental Hygiene Important?
Hygiene isn’t just physical, it is mental too. Creating a clear and organised space helps you maintain focus and stay calm during the workday.
- Stick to a Routine: Start and end your workday at consistent times to keep your work-life balance intact.
- Declutter Your Mind: Use to-do lists or digital planners to stay on top of tasks without feeling overwhelmed.
- Stay Connected: Remote work can feel isolating. Regular check-ins with colleagues keep you engaged and motivated.
A clean mind is just as important as a clean workplace.
Invest in the Right Supplies
You don’t need to go overboard, but having the right cleaning products makes it easier to stay on top of hygiene. Consider investing in essentials such as:
- Antibacterial hand soaps and sanitisers
- Disinfectant sprays and wipes
- Disposable gloves for deep cleaning
- Air fresheners to keep your workspace inviting
Small Changes can Make a Big Difference
Hygiene doesn’t have to be complicated. By making a few small changes to your routine, you can create a workspace which supports your health and productivity. Remember, a clean environment equals a clear mind and that’s where success starts.
At Galleon Supplies, we stock everything you need to create a clean and healthy work environment. Our products are designed to make hygiene simple and effective, whether you’re at home or in the office.
