When a glass cup, windowpane, or light bulb shatters, the shards can spread farther than you might expect. This not only poses a safety hazard but also increases the risk of injury if not handled immediately.
Cleaning up broken glass requires careful attention to prevent unnecessary accidents. Below is a detailed guide to help you clean up quickly, safely, and thoroughly.
Ensure Safety Before Cleaning
As soon as glass breaks, remove children and pets from the area to prevent accidents. The person cleaning up should wear closed-toe shoes, thick gloves, and, if necessary, protective eyewear.
Turn on all lights in the room to spot every shard. Use a flashlight or your phone’s light to check hidden areas like corners, floor gaps, or carpets.
Pick Up Large Shards First
Wear protective gloves and carefully pick up large shards of glass. If gloves are unavailable, use kitchen tongs instead. Avoid using bare hands to prevent cuts.
Wrap the broken glass in thick newspaper or place it in a triple-layered plastic bag before discarding it in the trash. This prevents puncturing the trash bag and reduces the risk of injury when handling waste.
Sweep or Vacuum Up Small Glass Pieces
Once the larger pieces are cleared, focus on the smaller, harder-to-see shards. If glass has fallen onto a carpet or upholstered furniture, use a stiff-bristled brush to bring the shards to the surface before attempting to sweep or vacuum them.
Use a stiff-bristled broom and dustpan to sweep up the fragments. Sweep gently in small sections to prevent scattering.
If using a vacuum, ensure it’s a handheld or wet/dry shop vacuum. Avoid vacuums with flexible hoses, as the glass may puncture or get stuck inside.
Use Household Items to Pick Up Tiny Shards
Even after sweeping or vacuuming, tiny glass particles may still be present. Here are some effective ways to remove them completely:
- Use soft bread: Press a slice of fresh bread onto the affected area. The glass particles will stick to it, making cleanup easier. Dispose of the bread immediately.
- Use a potato: Cut a potato in half and press the exposed side onto the surface where glass has fallen. The flesh of the potato will trap the shards. Discard the potato immediately—do not compost it.
Use Tape or a Lint Roller for Micro Shards
Tiny glass fragments can get lodged in carpets, floor cracks, or tight corners. Here are some methods to remove them:
- Use damp paper towels: Fold several layers of paper towels, dampen them slightly, and press them onto the area. The glass will stick to the paper, making disposal easier.
- Use duct tape: Wrap duct tape around your hand with the sticky side facing outward. Lightly press it onto areas where shards may remain, then carefully discard the used tape.
- Use a lint roller: A strong adhesive lint roller, especially one designed for pet hair, can effectively pick up tiny glass pieces. Peel off the used layer and dispose of it properly.
Final Check and Clean Up Cleaning Tools
After completing the cleanup, do a final check using a flashlight to ensure no shards remain.
Take the broom and dustpan outside and rinse them with water to remove any clinging glass particles. If you used a vacuum, check the dust compartment and dispose of the debris carefully.
Lastly, inspect the soles of your shoes. Use duct tape or a paper towel to remove any stuck glass to prevent tracking it throughout the house.
Conclusion
Cleaning up broken glass requires caution to ensure the safety of you and those around you. If done correctly, you can avoid unnecessary risks and keep your living space safe.
By following these steps, you can efficiently and thoroughly clean up broken glass, making your home a safer place for everyone.