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As a general rule of thumb, avoid handwashing dishes whenever possible—especially if you have a full sink. Using a dishwasher saves water and better sanitizes your dishes. However, if you have delicate dishwear, high-end glassware, or fragile plastics, you should opt to handwash it to avoid cracks, chips, or warping from the high heat of a dishwasher.

While a biohazard cleanup sounds like a scary process, knowing what to expect can help ease your concerns and set you up for success. It’s good to note that more than one professional might be needed depending on your situation, but that will be determined during the assessment. What you can expect during a home biohazard cleanup is the following:

• Assessment: The first step in this process is for a biohazard cleanup professional to assess the damage. They create a report that includes the biohazard safety level, the needed damage cleanup, and the time it should take to complete the project. 

• Setup: The cleanup professional prepares the site to prevent cross-contamination and reduce toxicity risk. This process can include tarping and creating decontamination zones. 

• Removal of surface contamination: Any contaminated materials are removed from the area, starting with large materials followed by small ones. The professional can assess any floor-related damage once everything is removed from the site. 

• Salvaging items: The biohazard cleanup professionals assess which items can be saved and which are contaminated beyond the point of saving. Those deemed unsafe will be disposed of immediately. 

• Waste disposal: The next step is carefully disposing of the hazardous waste. Your professional will place the contaminated items in specific containers to keep the contamination from spreading.   

• Disinfection: The house will be disinfected and odor-neutralized. Even more minor details, like light switches and bulbs, will be disinfected so that they do not recontaminate the area in the future. 

• Restoration: Once the decontamination is complete, the last step is to restore the home. This includes repairing the damage to flooring, walls, or even the home's foundation.  

Unless it’s written into the purchase agreement, there’s no legal obligation that a house you’ve bought has to be clean before you move in. The previous owner is generally required to sweep the house, but that doesn’t guarantee everything will be spotless upon your arrival. If possible, discuss the cleaning requirements with the real estate company before moving in.

The answer to this question varies by the household, as well as by the room. For high-traffic areas in busier households, aim to mop your floors at least once a week or more as needed. Homes and rooms with less foot traffic can likely get away with mopping every two weeks. Keep an eye on your floors throughout the month and adjust this chore on your household cleaning checklist as necessary.