It is ever so important now than before to take precautions against germs that can lead to any type of sickness, including COVID – 19. It is very well understood that the virus spreads from one person to another. However, it is still not very clear that how the virus can get contracted from the surface.
Recent studies and researchers have found that it can sustain up to four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on cardboard and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel.
Though many experts still agree that there is a less risk of contracting the virus from different surfaces and objects than from other people, precautionary measures should still be taken.
Soft surfaces, like rugs and curtains, can be cleaned with soap and water and laundered in the washing machine as per the user’s manual. Clothing, towels, and linens can also be cleaned effectively by washing them in the washer on the warmest appropriate water setting and then drying them off completely.
Electronic devices like phones, laptops, tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls and other electronics can be disinfected with wipes or sprays with at least 70% of alcohol.
How often you can clean and disinfect surfaces depends on how often they are been touched or used. However, if you suspect that someone in the home has been infected with corona virus, then the following protocol for cleaning surfaces should be taken:
- Clean and disinfect surfaces often.
- Wear gloves while handling the dirty laundry and linens.
- Clean and disinfect clothes with disposable bags and wash the bag after each use.
- Dispose of the gloves and wash your hands immediately after that. According to the health guidelines, it is alright to wash a sick person’s clothes with others
When in public or around the people who are not from your household, such as at the grocery store or pharmacy, always maintain a physical distance of at least two meters distance away from them and wear a mask to help protect others in case you have the virus but are asymptomatic. Wearing disposable gloves can also help protect you. However, it is important that you do not touch your face or mask with the gloves and that you remove and dispose of the gloves and mask properly and instantly. Remove the gloves by pulling the one from one end of the glove at your wrist and turning it inside out as you remove it from your hand. Repeat the same procedure for the other glove and wash your hands immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Always leave your shoes at the doorstep and rigorously wash your hands with soap and water. Allot a place to unload the clothing items and clean and disinfect the surface after you are done. It is not necessary to wipe down all your purchases, however, doing so may further limit your exposure to the deadly virus. Unless you believe that you have been directly exposed to the virus, there’s no need to shower or change your clothes after an outing.
Regular washing of hands, necessary social distancing, wearing a face mask in public and frequently disinfecting highly touched surfaces and objects is still the best way to limit the spread of corona virus.
When you clean something, you just remove all visible traces of dust or dirt. It’s like laundering a soiled T-shirt or wiping off a wooden shelf with a cloth and furniture polish.
Anything that is touched frequently, such as tables, chairs, telephones, keyboards, remote controls, counter tops, light switches, water faucets, refrigerator handles, drawer pulls and door knobs, should be disinfected often. This is especially important during this pandemic.
Most often used items and surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms, such as trash cans, toilets, bathtubs and floors, should be disinfected about once a week.
It also depends on what you want to clean. It’s always best to read the label of any given product before using it, to make sure it is designed to clean the required item.
Ensure properly that you follow the instructions carefully. Read and follow any warnings to protect eyes, skin, or lungs from caustic agents or chemicals. Wear household cleaning gloves or safety goggles if indicated. Always be cautious while using the products that release strong fumes. They can be dangerous in tight or enclosed areas that are not well-ventilated.
