Home appliances pull double-duty, clean and help prevent the spread of common illnesses
- Using the sanitize cycles and sanitize temperatures on dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers can reduce bacteria by almost 100 percent
- Many GE dishwashers and laundry pairs offer consumers anti-bacterial options that reach and sustain temperatures proven to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria
LOUISVILLE, Ky., --- Feb. 15, 2012--- (NYSE: GE) --- While many people think hand washing is the only way to arm themselves against flu season, they might be surprised to learn that they have another line of defense -- their home appliances.
While slathering on antibacterial hand gels and religiously disinfecting common touch points can be effective approaches to staying healthy, some appliances can also help combat common germs that take up residence on your dishes, clothes, or bedding.
Dishwasher Duty
Dishwashers that offer a sanitize cycle will typically reach and sustain a temperature high enough to destroy most bacteria.
"Selecting the sanitize cycle on your dishwasher can help stop the spread of many bacteria found on dishes and utensils that cause family members to share sicknesses with each other," says Jeff Kiesler, engineer at GE Appliances. "The National Sanitation Foundation has certified all GE® brand, GE Café™ and GE Profile™ dishwashers that offer the sanitize cycle."
Don't Just do Laundry -- Sanitize
Many newer washing machines also offer a "sanitize temperature" option. Similar to the sanitize cycle on the dishwasher, the sanitize temperature on a washing machine will reach and sustain a temperature proven to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria, like those that cause staph and urinary tract infections. Many GE brand and GE Profile washing machines offer this feature.
"Using the sanitize temperature selection available on some GE washing machines will kill almost 100 percent of germs and bacteria on clothes and bedding," says Raegen VanBogaert, GE Clothes Care Training Manager.
Dry it Clean
Lastly, tossing your clothes in the dryer may deliver the final blow to any bacteria that managed to escape the heat of the washing machine. Many dryers on the market have an NSF certification, including an antibacterial option on certain models of GE® and GE Profile™ dryers.
Help escape the inconveniences of being sick by putting your appliances on the frontline of illness prevention. High heat and sustained temperatures could be the remedy that items like cups and coats need to rid themselves of infection-spreading bacteria.
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About GE Appliances
GE Appliances is at the forefront of building innovative, energy-efficient appliances that improve people's lives. GE Appliances' products include refrigerators, freezers, cooking products, dishwashers, washers, dryers, air conditioners, water filtration systems and water heaters. General Electric (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter to build a world that works better. For more information on GE Appliances, visit www.ge.com/appliances.
Kim Freeman
GE Consumer & Industrial - Americas
[email protected]
502-452-7819