Keeping your home clean can be a challenge, but during a global pandemic, the importance of cleanliness is magnified. The coronavirus primarily spreads through airborne droplets from sneezing and coughing, yet it can survive on hard surfaces such as glass and countertops for as long as 72 hours, and on items like cardboard or fabric for up to 24 hours. Although the risk of transmitting the virus through surfaces is low, it remains a possibility.
Fortunately, the virus’s potency diminishes over time. For a surface-to-person transmission to occur, one would have to transfer a significant viral load from a surface directly into their mouth or nostrils. The key methods to protect ourselves include minimizing contact with others, staying home if unwell, and washing hands frequently. For more detailed cleaning and disinfecting guidelines, consult the CDC and EPA.
Understanding Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting
It is crucial to distinguish between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Cleaning removes dirt and grime, sanitizing reduces germs to safe levels, and disinfecting kills all germs present on a surface. Not all cleaning products are effective against all types of germs, which is why cleaning must precede disinfecting; otherwise, the root issue remains unaddressed.
Common disinfectants registered with the EPA can effectively eliminate tough viruses, including coronavirus. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for effective disinfection, which often requires the product to remain on the surface for a specified duration, typically up to ten minutes. Avoid mixing cleaning chemicals, particularly with ammonia, and ensure proper ventilation by opening windows or doors while using these products.
The Science Behind Soap and Water
You might wonder why simple soap and water suffice for hand cleaning. According to Dr. Clara Thompson, a chemist at a prominent university, the coronavirus resembles “nano-sized grease balls.” Its outer layer, made of fat and protein, is dismantled by soap, allowing the virus to dissolve in water and wash away. To maximize effectiveness, hands should be scrubbed for a full 20 seconds. If soap isn’t available, hand sanitizers must contain a minimum of 60% alcohol to be effective.
Cleaning Your Kitchen and Bathrooms
Moving on to your kitchen and bathrooms, a basic soap-and-water solution or vinegar spray can clean most non-porous surfaces. However, while vinegar can kill bacteria, it is ineffective against coronavirus. Many eco-friendly cleaners from brands like Green Clean and EcoSafe do not meet the EPA’s criteria for viral disinfection. Tea tree oil, essential oils, or vodka will not eliminate COVID-19 either; these should be used for cleaning only, not disinfection.
The CDC advises that frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. High-contact areas include doorknobs, light switches, faucets, desks, keyboards, remote controls, and phones. Electronics should not be soaked in liquid; instead, use disinfecting wipes or a cloth moistened with a 70% alcohol solution. Remember to dry surfaces with a soft cloth afterward. Wipe down sinks, toilets, and counters often. Multi-surface cleaners from companies like Purell and Clorox will effectively kill the virus when used correctly, but do use gloves and ensure good ventilation, as these products can irritate skin and lungs.
DIY Cleaning Solutions
For a gentler approach, consider DIY cleaning solutions with common household items that contain fewer harsh chemicals. This is particularly useful since many commercial disinfectants may be in short supply. The CDC recommends creating a bleach solution by mixing 1/3 cup of bleach with a gallon of water. Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol will also work; be sure to check the label. Don’t hesitate to soak the surface, allowing it to remain wet for 30-60 seconds to effectively kill germs. Hydrogen peroxide, typically found in 3% solutions, is another effective disinfectant that can be applied directly.
Handling Deliveries and Packages
Many people are apprehensive about bringing in packages from delivery services. However, the CDC and WHO report that there is currently no evidence of coronavirus transmission via mail. Given that the virus can persist on porous materials for up to 24 hours, if you’re concerned about a package, leave it outside for a day or wipe it down with disinfectant. Alternatively, remove items from the package, dispose of the packaging, and wash your hands thoroughly while disinfecting the surface where the package rested.
Regularly wash reusable bags and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for laundry. For items you think may be contaminated, wash them using the hottest appropriate setting. Avoid shaking out dirty laundry, wash your hands after handling it, and disinfect laundry bins and bags.
Conclusion
Our homes remain the safest places to be; we simply need to be more diligent about cleaning and disinfecting frequently used areas. There’s no need to overuse bleach, but increasing handwashing frequency is essential—hopefully, that’s already part of your routine. For more insights on home health practices, check out this link.
In summary, maintaining cleanliness during a pandemic requires understanding the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. It’s essential to use the right products and techniques to ensure safety. For further information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource. For authoritative insights, see this informative guide.