With more confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), stay-at-home orders and social distancing practices have taken hold. This is a good thing for containing the of the virus. But on the other hand, how could you protect your home from this deadly virus? according to the website SurvivalAtHome.com, keeping the “high-touch” surfaces of your home clean is important, too. With that in mind, we have put together some of the essential cleaning and disinfecting tips on how to keep your home safe from Covid-19 virus.
Clean and Disinfect Hard Surfaces
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) strongly recommends frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, desks, phones, keyboards, showers, bathrooms, sinks, toys, and sports equipment. Be sure to wear disposable gloves after cleaning and use soap and water for pre-cleaning if a stain or object is dirty. You can then use a household cleaning product to destroy germs. Use disinfectants that meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) criteria for use against coronaviruses and are therefore suitable for the area being cleaned. Check the label to ensure that the bleach you are using is appropriate for disinfection and has not passed its expiration date.
Keep the Electronics Clean
When thinking about things that are touched often, don’t forget your favorite electronics. Tablets, touch screens, smartphones, keyboards and remote control devices are getting a workout these days. By keeping your electronics clean, put a cleanable cover on electronic devices. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting. A good rule of thumb is to use wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. It would be also wise to dry the electronics’ surface thoroughly.
Wash the Laundry, Rugs, and Carpets Regularly
Laundry, rugs, and carpets should be washed often, and don’t delay if there is contamination. Clean carpets and rugs along with your clothes using EPA-approved cleaners and wash these items as needed. If you wash your clothes, use the appropriate warmer water setting (as recommended by the manufacturer). Be sure to dry them thoroughly before bringing these items into your home. And don’t shake dirty clothes. Hold them as you put them in your machines. Dirty clothes from the infected person should be washed separately from the other items of your loved ones. Remember to clean and disinfect the hampers, baskets or bags the dirty laundry sits in while waiting to be washed.
