As coronavirus continues to wreak havoc across the world, scientists have confirmed that the virus can live on surfaces for up to 36 hours. This means high-touch public areas are more dangerous than ever.
But as much as you’d want to avoid these areas and spend more time at home, you should keep in mind that it is not just public spaces that pose a risk.
If you or one of your family members is one of the many asymptomatic victims in the world, your entire household could be at risk of contracting the virus. The risk is even higher if you don’t observe recommended hygiene standards.
One of the best ways of keeping COVID-19 at bay is by keeping your home/apartment/condo clean and sanitized all the time. Here is a simple guide on how to clean and sanitize your property to keep your loved ones safe during this difficult time.
Clean the Most Used and high-Touch Surfaces Regularly
While it is pretty hard to tell what is contaminated in your house, you need to start paying close attention to high-touch surfaces because that is where the biggest risk lies.
Scientists say that our hands are responsible for transferring the virus from one place to another and from surfaces to our bodies.
Therefore, start paying close attention to frequently touched items/surfaces such as fridge doors, kitchen surfaces, kitchen cupboards, TV remotes, door handles, taps, and mobile phones.
Use clean water and soap to wash these items/surfaces frequently because research shows that coronaviruses are vulnerable to soap. Wipe the door handles, TV remotes, fridge doors, and cupboard handles often.
Wash Your Laundry in Warm Water
Cold water without soap may not be effective when it comes to killing germs and coronaviruses that may be lurking on your clothes.
Therefore, it is a good idea to run your laundry through warm or hot water to get rid of the viruses and germs. If you are collecting laundry in a linen bag, be sure to throw the bag in the load as well.
Most importantly, if you suspect any member of your household is already infected, keep their laundry in a separate container, and only handle the clothes when wearing disposable gloves.
Use the Right Cleaners
This is the time you need to keep in mind that not all types of cleaners are effective in killing viruses. Public health experts recommend using diluted household bleach or any alcohol-based cleaning agent to clean your house and laundry.
If you choose the latter option, make sure the cleaning solution contains at least 70% alcohol. Hydrogen peroxide is also another effective cleaning agent, but you need to leave it on the surface for at least one minute for it to be effective.
Vodka, vinegar, and most homemade sanitizers won’t destroy coronaviruses, so it is good to avoid them altogether.
Use Hot Water to Wash Dishes and Cutlery
Washing your dishes and cutlery with hot water and detergent is sufficient to keep them safe for use. If you have a dishwasher, that is much better because you can use hotter water that your hands cannot tolerate. Viruses and germs cannot withstand the high temperature of hot water.