Expert Tips for a Germ-Free Texas Classroom

Whether kids in Texas are heading to school at the start of the semester or preparing to enjoy an extended vacation, it's important to understand that classrooms can be breeding grounds for some pretty nasty bacteria and germs.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlined some tricks to keeping classrooms as germ-free as possible while limiting the spread of infections.

Sanitizing and Air Ventilation in Texas Classrooms

The Lone Star State is known for its high temps and dry seasons, but opening the windows in classrooms can be beneficial in increasing air flow and introducing fresh air into the crowded room.

Just make sure you don't let in all the dust if you live in West Texas...

If a classroom has no windows at all that safely open, portable air cleaners can really be a help to avoid stagnant air from being filled with bacteria.

Everyone knows that surfaces like desks, pencils, and doorknobs are particularly germ-ridden. Disinfecting wipes can be used on most hard surfaces and are a great way to kill any harmful bacteria that get transferred onto hands of all ages throughout the day.

Isopropyl alcohol, bleach, and hydrogen peroxide are good alternatives to disinfecting wipes. Just make sure you properly dilute and handle each solution first.

Proper Hand Washing

Some people have heard different ways, as a kid, of finding out how long you should wash your hands. Some say count to 20, others recommend reciting the alphabet in your head twice in row while you scrub.

The truth is that as long as you properly distribute the water and soap evenly on your hands (up to the wrist and under fingernails as well), you have the best chance of eliminating germs.

If soap and water is not readily available, hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol is your next best option.

And always remember Dracula when sneezing. No, seriously. If you feel that notorious tickle in your nose, make sure you sneeze into the crook of your elbow as if you were a vampire sneezing into your cape.