With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, our lifestyles have drastically changed. Adapting to this new normal has even heightened the importance of having a clean and sanitized home. Surfaces and areas these days require far more attention than only being wiped down, as disinfecting is critical to keep your household free from various pathogens. New research confirms that the coronavirus can circulate in the air for several hours while surviving on surfaces for days at a time, which makes it even more important to disinfect homes routinely and thoroughly. In this disinfecting guide, we will share actionable steps to help reduce the chances of contracting the virus followed with tips on cleaning specifically for the coronavirus:
1. Use Disinfectant Cleaners to Improve the Air You Breathe:
Investing in air cleaners along with disinfectant sanitizers reduces virus contamination. The CDC emphasizes the use of HEPA filter air purifiers as part of an air quality improvement plan. Air filtration should be combined with additional measures like disinfecting surfaces, using clean hands to touch your face, maintaining physical distance from people, and being socially distant. Look into buying air purifiers that come with pathogen-destroying UV-C light for improved virus removal. Keeping windows and vents exposed enables faster reduction of air viruses in the home.
2. Cleaning Comes First: The Two Steps.
Cleaning and disinfecting are not the same. Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and dust, whereas disinfecting wipes out germs and viruses. To control household germs effectively, use a two-step method. First, clean stained surfaces with soap and water as well as dusty surfaces with a cloth. After that, an EPA registered disinfectant can be used. For ease of work, choose disinfectants that are also cleaners. This method of cleaning ensures proper disinfection.
3. Give Priority to These Areas: Where Germs Are Abundant.
Executing a complete cleaning of the house every day is not practical, but the disinfection of high touch areas is essential. Concentrate on germ hot spots such as toilet seats and handles, counters in the kitchen and bathrooms, faucets, doorknobs, tables, light switches, and staircase railings. Disinfectant sprays can be used but to achieve effective results, surfaces must be left dry completely and not used during this time. Concentrate more on areas that all family members frequently use to increase infection control.
4. Use an EPA Registered Disinfectant: It Is Safe.
Household cleaners may not protect you against stubborn viruses. Give priority to EPA registered disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide, isopropyl alcohol (70%), and disinfectant brands like Purell, Clorox, and Lysol. These products have hard protective wrappers and go through a scientific gait. Regardless of disinfectants, always check their surface at the label instructions. For 99.9 percent elimination, the germicidal EPA guidelines contact times should be followed in the range of a decade. This stride is essential.
5. Ensure Electronics Are Carefully Disinfected: Guarding Your Devices.
Mobile phones, tablets, and laptops visit because they are often touched. They are repetitive disinfected with liquid wiping cloths. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean the monitor, mouse, and keyboard of desktop computers at points of contact, taking care not to soak them. The repeat use must not have moisture that can bestow harm on the items. Controlling changes at contacts is an important measure for respiratory viruses.
6. Wash Laundry at High Temperatures: Combatting Viral Spread
Lower the chances of coronavirus exposure by washing clothes at higher temperatures. Washing highrisk apparel, especially gym wear or workout clothes , towels, and reusable diapers, is advised at 60 degrees celsius or higher. Using bleach can also deactivate viruses.
Dried clothing should be completely virus free as reducing the amount of moisture helps prevent viral spread.
Safety Measures and Expert Help
Protective measures must be taken by using full gloves when disinfecting with strong chemicals as they can be annoying to the skin. Windows should be opened to allow airflow within the property causing fresh air to come in. Family members can support one another with home cleanings and remember inform other family members about COVID-19 stipulations and measures. For HVAC cleaning, use a COVID safe HVAC sanitizing outright contractor.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the appropriate frequency for the disinfection of frequently touch surfaces?
After washing highly touched areas and surfaces, they should not come into contact for once every 24hours. Cleaned areas should be repetitive for number of days for sick family members or friends.
Q. Do air purifiers have the capability to eradicate all viruses?
Air purifiers that contain HEPA filters and UV-C light can greatly decrease airborne viruses, however, this appliance can most effectively work when they are used with other preventive techniques.
Q. Is bleach safe for application at all surface?
Certain areas must not be subject to languidly use bleach because they can destroy certain equipment. Always confirm the product label to access which surfaces are acceptable and which ones can be unsuitable.
Q. What is the best way to locate a directory of products vetted by the EPA?
To locate a directory of approved products, simply type “EPA List N” on the EPA website search bar.
Disclaimers:
This article should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice. Seek advice from your physician, infectious disease specialists, or public health authorities for more acute instructions. Also, following the manufacturer’s label directions as outlined on the disinfectant’s label is essential.
Your family’s home can be made safer from the strategies outlined in this article, which can be a direct contribution to healthier living.