Cleaning Strategies to Keep You Germ Free During Lock down

So now you know almost everything there is to know about Covid-19. In our last post, we shared with you details you may have missed on the virus. Now what? You may be wondering, “Where do I even begin with cleaning up my environment?” or, “How often do I need to clean my environment to be assured germ free?”. You have come to the right place. Although, you should only need to clean your home as regularly as normal, we have curated six strategies to help you begin operation ‘quarantine clean’. Here they are:

1.  Declutter and organize your home

The dust cannot stay in your home if it has nowhere to hide. An open clean home is less likely to attract dust that you can inhale; causing you to cough and sneeze. The less surfaces the virus can fall on, the better. Also, a clean and breathable environment has been known to offer a sense of control in the face of uncertainty as well as offer your mind, body and soul a respite from traumatic stress.

2.  Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

These include door knobs, light switches, handles, handrails on staircases, tables, countertops, faucets, sinks, bathrooms, desks, keyboards, the floor and other surfaces a person would potentially contact. Frequently touched surfaces should be wiped down with soap and water, a household disinfectant, or 70% alcohol solutions. Wipe down electronics carefully with simple alcohol-based solutions and dry surface thoroughly. Be sure to wear disposable gloves to clean and disinfect.

3. Sterilize reusable cleaning tools

Soak your mop and cleaning cloths in hot soapy water, bleach or Dettol before washing.

4.  Change your bedding and clean your curtains frequently

Change your bedding every 7-14 days. Consider steaming your curtains if you cannot change them as often as possible. Window sills are the worst when it comes to contracting dirt over time. Dust out window nets with a damp cloth weekly.

5. Wash or sun clothes immediately you enter your home

Doctors have said that the virus can attach itself to hair or clothes. Avoid sitting down when you get in from grocery shopping and go straight into the shower. If clothes cannot be washed immediately, hang them in direct sunlight to neutralize the virus before throwing them in with the laundry.

6. Wash your hands every 20 minutes

Do not hesitate to wash your hands as often as possible. Now that you are at home, you might not see a need to constantly wash your hands. However, better to be safe than sorry. Wash your hands using any soap that foams (do this for 20 seconds) especially after handling parcels or letters from outside.