SPRING CLEANING: COVID-19 EDITION
Spring is here, and unfortunately, so is Covid, who has overstayed its’ welcome. It’s more important now than ever to take time out and do some Spring cleaning. Covid-19 can live on surfaces for an extended period. Sanitizing and disinfecting touched surfaces will help keep our homes clean and help prevent the virus from spreading.
Dr. Gregory Poland, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases expert, suggests standard spring-cleaning practices will be sufficient. However, if someone in the household was infected by the virus, extra disinfecting is needed.
In addition, it’s more likely to catch it from being in contact with someone who touched a contaminated surface. We are still learning a lot about the virus, but here is better insight into how long the virus can last on different types of surfaces. Metal, ceramics, and glass can stay contaminated for up to 5 days, while plastics and stainless steel for 2 to 3 days.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can be killed if you use the right products. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the products listed below are effective against viruses that are harder to kill than viruses like the one that causes COVID-19.
Approved disinfectants against coronavirus include:
· Clorox Multi Surface Cleaner + Bleach
· Clorox Disinfecting Wipes and Spray
· Lysol Heavy-Duty Cleaner Disinfectant Concentrate
· Lysol Clean & Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner
· Purell Professional Surface Disinfectant Wipes
· Sani-Prime Germicidal Spray
Unfortunately, surfaces like our phones and cases are coronavirus weapons. Apple recommends using a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes to wipe your iPhone’s exterior surfaces. However, you should also use household cleaning products to disinfect high-touch areas in your home.
Here is a list of common areas that may be highly contaminated:
· Countertops
· Tables
· Backs of chairs
· Light switches
· Faucets and Toilets
· Doorknobs
· Remote controls
Lastly, if it’s touched throughout the day, clean it! You should sanitize common areas multiple times throughout the day if possible. Getting a damp paper towel isn’t going to be good enough either. Tables and countertops should be wet for several minutes before being thoroughly wiped down. Happy cleaning!
