Home Hygiene 101

Great question—keeping your whole house celiac-safe (especially if it’s shared with gluten-eaters) goes beyond the kitchen. Here's a full breakdown on how to clean and maintain a gluten-free-safe home, with both deep cleaning tips and everyday habits:

🧼 Deep Cleaning to "Detox" Gluten

Start with a deep clean if someone in the house was using gluten previously.

💥 Kitchen Deep Clean:

  • Wipe down all surfaces: counters, drawers, cupboards, handles, light switches.

  • Vacuum and mop kitchen floors and corners (crumbs hide there).

  • Clean inside appliances: toaster, oven, microwave, fridge (crumbs love seals and trays).

  • Toss or deep clean anything porous or scratched (wood boards, nonstick pans, etc.).

  • Replace or label new GF-only versions of cutting boards, utensils, colanders, etc.

🧊 Pantry + Storage:

  • Check everything for gluten.

  • Reorganize with gluten-free items stored up high or in sealed containers.

  • Label shelves or use color-coded bins.

🧹 Whole-House Tips

Even outside the kitchen, crumbs and flour particles can travel.

🛋️ Common Areas:

  • Vacuum upholstery and couches, especially where people snack.

  • Sweep/mop floors regularly—crumbs can be tracked.

  • Wipe remotes, coffee tables, or game controllers.

🚽 Bathrooms:

  • Check cosmetics, lotions, lip balms, toothpaste, and meds—some contain gluten!

  • Store gluten-free personal care products separately.

  • Use fresh, clean towels and wash cloths.

🛏️ Bedrooms

  • Wash bedding and pillowcases if gluten was ever eaten in bed.

  • Avoid eating gluten-containing foods in bedrooms if you’re in a shared home.

  • Keep hand sanitizer or wipes nearby if someone handles food outside the kitchen.

🤲 Prevent Cross-Contact Daily

  • Use separate sponges, dish cloths, and towels.

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling gluten.

  • Keep gluten-free zones clean and clearly labeled.

🧽 Recommended Cleaning Supplies:

  • All-purpose gluten-free-safe cleaner (most standard cleaners are fine).

  • Microfiber cloths or disposable wipes.

  • Separate sponge/scrubber for GF dishes.

🧠 Bonus Tips:

  • Educate roommates or family on how to prevent cross-contact.

  • Set up visual reminders or "Gluten-Free Zone" signs.

  • Create a “gluten-free safe list” for household members to refer to.

Would you like a printable checklist version of this? Or maybe a poster you can hang up in a shared house?