Let’s be honest, doing laundry can feel like a real pain, especially now that many of us are washing more clothes than ever due to COVID-19. I’ve found myself undressing in the garage after grocery trips, which has become the only public place I visit these days. Initially, I didn’t think much of it, but now, after seeing the impact of the virus, I’ve adopted a “better safe than sorry” approach.
When my son returns after a shift at the local grocery store, he immediately washes his hands, tosses his clothes into the washing machine, and then sanitizes again before showering. My motto is clear: we can’t be too careful. I refuse to let germs linger in our home, which is why I make sure to wash his clothes right away instead of letting them sit on the floor, where they could become a breeding ground for bacteria.
But am I going overboard? Or am I doing enough to keep our home safe? If you have kids, you’re probably well-versed in tackling stains from food or other messes, but handling laundry during a pandemic requires a different level of diligence.
According to the New York Times, while guidance can change, your laundry is not the primary focus of safety concerns. Experts suggest that hand hygiene is the best way to prevent infection. Biomedical expert Dr. Melanie Turner emphasizes the importance of changing clothes and shoes after being in public places, especially if you’ve used public transportation. This means my son’s routine isn’t excessive; it’s prudent.
The article continues to explain that if someone coughs or sneezes near you, it’s wise to change clothes immediately. If your job involves interacting with many people, you should switch into clean garments and wash your hands upon returning home. Dr. Turner points out that if your clothing has been in contact with contaminated surfaces, you could inadvertently bring the virus home.
The CDC recommends washing your clothes using the hottest water safe for the fabric. You can stick with your usual detergent, but for added assurance, check out this list of EPA-approved cleaning products effective against COVID-19. Avoid shaking out laundry before washing, as this can spread the virus through the air. It’s advisable to dry clothes at the highest temperature possible. If you have delicate items that require hand washing or can’t handle high heat, consider putting them away until the pandemic subsides.
If you’re doing laundry for someone who has been outside, wearing gloves is a good idea. Just be sure to dispose of them properly to prevent cross-contamination, and wash your hands right after.
The CDC also states that washing the laundry of someone who is ill with the same load as others is acceptable, but remember to clean and disinfect your laundry basket. If you’re using a laundromat, you don’t need to worry about using shared machines, but be cautious about touching surfaces and maintain social distancing.
In summary, the best strategies for laundry during this pandemic are straightforward: wash clothes as soon as you return home, using the hottest water suitable for the fabric. Don’t forget to wash your hands afterward, or wear gloves while handling laundry. These extra precautions may be different from your usual routine, but they’re essential for protecting your family’s health. For more insights on health and safety, check out our post on home insemination here, and for excellent resources regarding pregnancy and insemination, visit Johns Hopkins Medicine.