An excessive urge for cleanliness can disrupt the delicate balance of our microbiome and thus impair our immune system. Researchers emphasize that an almost sterile home can do more harm than good.
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What do researchers say? Science agrees: Keeping our homes too clean reduces the diversity of microbes – and that has consequences for our health. According to the Pharmaceutical Journal (via PZ), the microbiome significantly influences our health by regulating the immune system and affecting the risk for certain diseases.
A recent study also shows: Many of the microbes that live in our households protect our immune system and are important for our health (via nature). Their absence is associated with an increased risk for allergies, asthma, and other autoimmune diseases.
Especially new and clean is the Switch 2:
What are microbiomes anyway? The microbiome includes all microorganisms that, for example, inhabit our body. These microbes perform important tasks, such as supporting the immune system, producing vitamins, and protecting against pathogens. Each person’s microbiome is individually composed and varies from person to person (via Springer).
It mainly consists of bacteria, outnumbering human body cells. The majority of these bacteria are found in the gastrointestinal tract. Many of them perform essential functions for humans, such as the production of vitamins or protection against pathogens (via DZIF). Additionally, there are also microbes in our environment, such as in our homes, that interact with us and affect our immune system.
A compromised microbiome is rather bad
Why does the microbiome affect our immune system? A diverse microbiome trains our immune system by developing immune tolerance towards beneficial microbes while fighting harmful pathogens. A lack of this diversity can lead to dysregulation of the immune system, increasing the risk for allergies and autoimmune diseases.
Excessive cleaning with antimicrobial products can damage the microbiome and weaken the immune system. Especially in childhood, excessive cleanliness can prevent the immune system from being ‘trained’ through contact with harmless microbes.
Clean, sterile or disinfected – Where’s the difference? The terms “sterile”, “clean” and “disinfected” are often equated but describe different hygiene states (via Steriblog):
- Clean means removing dirt without specifically eliminating germs.
- Disinfected describes the reduction of harmful microorganisms.
- Sterile, on the other hand, means complete freedom from germs, as is only required in medical fields.
Even though it may sound good, a sterile living environment would likely harm one’s own immune system and overall health because it ultimately jeopardizes the beneficial microbiome. Therefore, a living environment that is as sterile or disinfected as possible is not sensible.
Balance is essential
How much is enough? This does not mean we should forgo hygiene, as without regular cleaning, harmful germs like mold or bacteria from food can accumulate. The COVID-19 pandemic has also shown how essential hygiene routines are to prevent the spread of diseases. Regular handwashing and cleaning surfaces remain important measures to protect against infections.
As recommended by NDR (via NDR), aggressive disinfectants should only be used where truly necessary, such as in the toilet or after preparing raw meat. For everyday use, mild cleaning agents like soapy water or vinegar are sufficient. Regular airing also helps create a healthy indoor climate and prevents mold growth.
Not only excessive cleanliness but also sitting in front of the screen for hours can cause health issues. You can read about it here: 27-year-old reports health problems after 10 years on Twitch due to too much gaming
