C. Diff. Infection Control

Most disinfectants and cleaners can cause more harm than good

C. difficile is a growing part of our society and all of us are exposed to the bacteria more often than we realize. It is vital that you understand and practice good infection control techniques to protect you and your family from becoming infected. Good hygiene practices can also help you to recover faster from a C. difficile infection.

The EPA advises people to only buy non-toxic and unscented cleaning products. Synthetic chemicals used in many cleaning products are toxic. They can weaken your body and leave you MORE vulnerable to infections in the long run.

The same goes for hand soaps. While consistent hand washing is very important, the type of soaps you use makes a big difference. And some hand cleaners will not kill C. difficile spores.

How C. difficile move from person to person

C. difficile spores can live on surfaces or clothing for years. Spores are like a protective armor that bacteria can wear while dormant, allowing them to survive for long periods in harsh conditions. C. difficile spores are easily spread from person to person through touch, contact with contaminated objects or surfaces (like cell phones, keyboards, gym equipment and more), and even through the air as airborne C. difficile (more on that in a bit).

Will hand washing prevent C. difficile?

Hand washing is a powerful method of infection control for C. difficile. However, it will not protect you from airborne C. difficile and other ways of contracting the infection.

It is true that hand washing is important. Be sure to wash your hands well in warm soapy water. I do not advocate the use of antibacterial soaps, as studies have shown they can weaken your skin’s natural defenses, and can actually INCREASE your chances of getting infected.

Be aware that alcohol can not kill C. difficile spores. So avoid using the popular hand sprays and sanitizers that contain alcohols as the main ingredient.

Also keep in mind that over-washing your hands can be bad as it can lead to cracks in your skin, which can make your skin vulnerable to picking up infections.

Safe and effective disinfectants

For some reason, our culture doesn’t seem to think twice about using toxic and poisonous compounds to clean our homes. For your ultimate health and safety from C. difficile and other infections, consider switching to effective natural cleaners.

Bleach is a common and effective disinfectant, but it must be used very carefully to avoid exposure to harmful byproducts. While bleach is the only EPA approved product for killing C. difficile, there are several natural options for soap and personal care products and more benign options for disinfectants.

There are actually quite a few safe alternatives you can purchase or make yourself that are effective for disinfection. Many are made with natural antibacterial agents like essential oils or colloidal silver. Using safer cleaners can help your body stay healthier.