16.09.2026

Someone ill at home? How to help reduce the spread of infection

When your child develops a cough or catches a cold, you want to do everything you can to help them feel better and keep the rest of your family well. A few simple habits can make a difference: washing hands, airing rooms and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. You can support this routine with air purification, humidification when the air is dry, and steam cleaning on suitable surfaces. Here’s how to bring these measures together in everyday life.

How can infections spread in your home?

Some respiratory viruses can spread through the air. Particles carrying germs can build up more easily in enclosed, poorly ventilated rooms, so ventilation and air filtration can be useful additional measures. Make airing your home part of your daily routine while someone is ill. Shared objects can also play a part in passing germs from one person to another. Germs on your hands can enter your body when you touch your nose, mouth or eyes. This is why washing your hands with soap and water, and covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, matters. During a cold or another common respiratory infection, it is worth paying attention to both the air in your home and the surfaces your family shares.

Focus on simple, consistent habits

When your child is unwell, they especially need your comfort and care. With this in mind, try to limit close contact with other family members where it is not needed for their care, particularly if an older relative or someone more vulnerable to infection lives with you. A well-fitting mask may offer additional protection for an adult caring for someone who is ill. Help your child wash their hands, especially after blowing their nose. Keep tissues within reach and put used ones straight in the bin. Teach them to cough or sneeze into the crook of their elbow if a tissue is not available. These small habits remain important alongside any appliances you use.

An air purifier in your child’s bedroom: a useful addition to ventilation

An air purifier draws air from the room through its filtration system, then releases the filtered air back into the space. Used alongside ventilation, a HEPA-filtered appliance can help reduce airborne particles, including those that may carry germs. The cotton filter and antibacterial agent also work together to help substantially reduce airborne bacteria and other pathogens. The built-in UV light may reduce the number of bacteria and viruses in the air. When choosing an appliance, consider the size of the room and its clean air delivery rate (CADR), as well as the type of filter. A larger room will generally need a higher-capacity model. Fan speed and running time matter too: quieter settings usually mean less air passes through the appliance.

The Richter AP4 air purifier and humidifier in our range features a HEPA13 filter and a built-in humidifying unit. Its CADR for PM2.5 particles is 488 m³/h, and we recommend it for rooms measuring 34–58 m². These figures can help you assess whether it is suitable for your chosen room.

Keep the air inlets and outlets clear during use, and follow the filter maintenance instructions. Combine air filtration with regular ventilation.

Dry air and the lining of your airways: what should you know about humidification?

During the colder months, when the heating is on, low indoor humidity can leave your nose, throat and skin feeling dry. Humidification may help ease this discomfort. The mucous membranes lining your airways form part of your body’s natural defences, and the moisture content of the air can affect how they function. Researchers are investigating the relationship between dry air and respiratory defences. However, the most tangible benefit of using a humidifier at home is relief from dryness and a more comfortable indoor environment. Adjust humidifier use primarily according to the measured humidity in the room and how comfortable you feel.

Measure humidity rather than relying on how the air feels

Before using a humidifier, check the room’s humidity with a hygrometer. Keep relative humidity at or below 50%. Excess moisture can encourage mould growth and dust mites. If you notice condensation on windows or dampness on nearby surfaces, reduce humidification. Cleaning the tank regularly and changing the water are also important. The AP4’s built-in humidifier has its own filter, runs on tap water and adjusts its moisture output according to the selected fan speed. This brings air filtration and humidification together in one appliance. Continue to monitor the room’s humidity while it is in use.

Steam cleaning and surface hygiene: when can it help?

When your child is ill, paying particular attention to frequently touched surfaces is especially important. These include door handles, taps, light switches and tabletops. Regular cleaning can remove a substantial proportion of germs along with dirt. During illness, you can follow this with disinfection where needed. Our SC PRO-1 (ÖKO-PRO) steam cleaner provides 7 bar steam pressure and electronic steam control for thorough cleaning. Its dual-tank design allows you to refill the separate water tank during use, so you can continue cleaning without interruption. With the appropriate attachments, it makes it easier to clean steam-safe tiles, grout and shower enclosures, as well as awkward corners. Used alongside the AP4, it can help you look after both the air and the surfaces in your home.

What should you bear in mind when steam cleaning?

Hot steam can help loosen dirt and, under suitable treatment conditions, may also be effective against germs. Its disinfecting effect depends partly on the temperature reached at the surface and the duration of treatment. If you intend to use steam for disinfection, always follow the conditions under which that particular appliance’s effectiveness has been verified. Within this routine, use the SC PRO-1 (ÖKO-PRO) to clean surfaces that are suitable for steam treatment. Even on metal surfaces, check that the coating and the entire fitting can withstand heat and moisture. Follow both the surface manufacturer’s and the appliance manufacturer’s instructions, and keep your child away from hot steam and treated surfaces until they have cooled. For electrical switches and appliances, use the cleaning method specified by their manufacturer. If a disinfectant is needed, clean the surface first, then follow the contact time and directions on the label. Do not mix cleaning products.

Two appliances, three different jobs

When planning your household routine, it helps to give each appliance a clear purpose:

The two appliances complement each other: the AP4 can help filter the air and add moisture when needed, while the SC PRO-1 (ÖKO-PRO) can help clean suitable surfaces.

Build a routine that is easy to maintain when your child is ill

When your child is unwell, their rest and care come first. Fit handwashing, ventilation, targeted surface cleaning and, where appropriate, air filtration around those priorities. Base humidifier use on measured humidity, and use the steam cleaner only on suitable surfaces. Explore the Richter AP4 air purifier and humidifier and the SC PRO-1 (ÖKO-PRO) steam cleaner in our range. Choose according to the size of your rooms, their humidity levels and the surfaces in your home.

These appliances are intended to help you maintain your home environment and are not a substitute for medical care. If your child is struggling to breathe, seek emergency medical help immediately.