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?