The information overdose has never been as misleading as it is now. There is a barrage of coronavirus-related stories that it is hard to discern what is actually true or not. Thanks to the resources such as CDC and WHO, you have someplace to turn to for valid news.
As we are practicing social distancing and staying within the safe premises of our homes, it’s imperative to pay attention to regular cleaning and disinfecting. Take a long and hard look at your regular cleaning habits and modify them wherever required.
If you are looking for some useful resource for regular house disinfection, here is a brief guide for you. This includes the latest information about COVID cleaning from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Learn Modes Of Coronavirus Transmission
The most commonly reported mode of transmission is through the coughing and sneezing droplets of an infected person. That is the reason we are practicing social distancing. Several studies have shown that coronavirus can live on hard surfaces for hours to days depending on the surface. According to infectious disease specialist Kristin Englund, there is very little evidence that people are getting sick through surfaces.
Why Is It Important?
Understanding the modes of transmission is vital for effective coronavirus cleaning. Invest your efforts in the areas that require most of your attention.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning of the most commonly touched surfaced of your house with a soap or detergent effectively removes most of the germs.
Gather your cleaning supplies including soft-fiber cloths, detergent, soap, soft bristle brushes, and disinfectant wipes.
Start with the front door knobs and doorknobs. Dust off the surface with a soft cloth. Dampen the microfiber cloth in detergent solution and wipe the surfaces clean. Leave the detergent solution on for a few seconds and then wipe it with a clean cloth. High-touch surfaces should be cleaned daily and after you have a visitor. Clean the countertops and tables with the same method.
Regular cleaning is even more important during this pandemic because microbes including viruses can adhere more securely to the textured surfaces. Dirt, oil, and debris can further protect the microbes increasing the chances of transmission.
Vacuum the floors with your regular cleaners and keep your house ventilated.
If there has been an infected person visited or lived in your house in the last 24 hours, all of these surfaces must be disinfected with recommended cleaners. Read the label carefully to know the recommended time for complete disinfection.
House Cleaning When Someone Is Sick In House
If you suspect that an infected person visited your house or some from your house are COVID-19 positive, the following cleaning routine should be followed. You can also hire professional coronavirus cleaning services.
Bathroom
When the sick person can clean, provide them the cleaning supplies and ask them to clean the visibly dirty surfaces with detergent and disinfectant. Some of the disinfectant products also contain cleaning agents so it’s best to read the full label before using it. Increase the air circulation of the area.
If the sick person is not able to handle cleaning tasks, wear a mask and a pair of gloves before entering the bathroom. Disinfect the high touch surfaces and discard the disposable items.
Bedroom Cleaning
Only clean when the area is soiled to minimize contact with the sick person. The disinfection procedure remains the same.
Once the person is no longer needed to be separated, change the bed linen, disinfect the floors and all of the surfaces with appropriate disinfectant. You can visit the official website of the Environmental Protection Agency to find out the products considered safe for disinfection. Bleach is one of the most commonly used and effective disinfectants for hard surfaces.
Laundry Cleaning
Laundry is an important aspect of house cleaning especially if any infected person has used any of the dirty clothes. It is recommended to wash the clothes in are warmest appropriate settings and dry all of the items completely. When you are handling the laundry of a sick person, wear gloves and a mask and make sure the clothes are completely dry.
There is no need to be skeptical about the clothes of a dirty person as you can wash safely wash them with all clothes of other people.
Cleaning The Soft Surfaces
One of the biggest challenges is to keep the soft surfaces clean. As you cannot disinfect them with the previously mentioned method, you must vacuum them regularly. It’s best to cover your face with a mask while vacuuming. If it’s possible, launder the upholstery items. Check the list of recommended cleaners for soft surfaces and disinfect the places. When in confusion, seek help from disinfection services.
Electronics
When any of the electronics and appliances are being used by more than one person, disinfect them daily.
Other Important Preventive Measures For Your Safety
A lot of people are worried about the mail received. You don’t need to disinfect all of it. The best approach is to wash your hands after opening the package. Don’t touch your face while you are handling the mail.
