ACI Levels Up to Cleaning for Health Strategy

WASHINGTON -- The American Cleaning Institute launched its new Cleaning for Health initiative, aimed at empowering individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools to practice smart, targeted cleaning strategies that not only maintain their health, but create healthier living environments.

ACI's latest survey, conducted by Wakefield Research, revealed that 97% of Americans believe cleaning and hygiene are important for public health and the health of our communities. Additionally, three in four people (74%) have changed their cleaning habits to improve health - and the majority recognize the positive impact of cleaning on both physical (91%) and mental (84%) well-being. 

To launch Cleaning for Health, ACI is introducing a new resource guide: “Levels of Clean.” This free resource guide, backed by health and safety experts, provides helpful tips and information on the level of cleaning you should employ throughout your home based on factors such as the presence of viruses and sickness or a family member’s susceptibility to illness or allergies. 

“At ACI, we know cleaning plays a critical role in everyday life, but how you approach it often shifts depending on life stage, seasonal routines, and personal health concerns,” said Brian Sansoni, ACI Senior Vice President of Communications and Outreach. “Cleaning is more than just a chore; it’s one of the most important actions individuals and families can take to prevent the spread of common viruses and illnesses.

“The Cleaning for Health initiative builds on our commitment to being a trusted source for practical, science-based guidance that helps individuals and families make informed choices about their cleaning routines.”

Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, an urgent care physician and health advocate, said, "In my practice, I see the consequences of preventable illness every day -- missed school, missed work and germs being passed from one family member to another. I try to emphasize to my patients that small, consistent habits - like handwashing, surface disinfecting, and maintaining a clean home can play a powerful role in keeping individuals and families healthier."

To learn more about Levels of Clean and how to stay safe and healthy, visit the new Cleaning for Health webpage at www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-levels. 

As part of Cleaning for Health, and for the third consecutive year, ACI is partnering with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) to ensure individuals and families are equipped with the most up-to-date guidance on protecting themselves from illness. This collaboration builds on a suite of resources developed jointly by ACI and AAFP offering practical, accessible information for families seeking to use every-day cleaning as a tool to support better health.

Topics include:
•     Disinfecting Your Home. A guide on when and how to disinfect household surfaces to help stop the spread of germs.
•     Preparing for Parenthood: Cleaning Your Home. Tips for parents of infants on how to keep a safe, clean environment during the early stages of development to help prevent illness.

The ACI Spring Cleaning Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 nationally representative U.S. adults ages 18+, between February 10th and February 18th, 2025, using an email invitation and an online survey. The data has been weighted to ensure an accurate representation of nationally representative U.S. adults ages 18+.

The American Cleaning Institute (ACI – www.cleaninginstitute.org) is the Home of the U.S. Cleaning Products Industry and represents the $60 billion U.S. cleaning product supply chain.