Fri, 29 March 2024
The Daily Ittefaq

Clean your home

Update : 19 Dec 2021, 10:43

Studies have shown that the coronavirus can remain on surfaces for hours or days, depending on the surface. Cleaning has taken on a new meaning since the pandemic.

The average household now regularly buys disinfectants in bulk, ready to protect the home from germs and other microbes. Wash surfaces with water and soap (or detergent) once a day should be sufficient to remove any virus that’s on surfaces, especially those high-touch surfaces including doorknobs, handles, countertops and light switches.

disinfect door

But many people are cleaning incorrectly. A lot of people don't realise that "clean", "disinfect" and "sanitise" have different meanings, and each requires a different product with varying effects on the surfaces they are applied on. Unfortunately, the spray and immediately wipe technique doesn't do much more than remove visible debris on a surface or countertop.

To ensure clean and safe surfaces in your home, first, clear away dirt and dust with a non-scratch scouring sponge. Scrub and wipe surfaces clean.

Then, choose an appropriate disinfecting spray that has been approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or a local equivalent to ensure effectiveness against viruses.

When disinfecting, it is crucial to read and follow the steps that are outlined on the product label. Using a chemical agent that destroys 99.9999 per cent of microorganisms including disease-causing pathogens (potentially Covid-19 as well) when used as directed on the product label.

You need to follow a daily and weekly disinfecting routine for common areas like the kitchen and bathroom to combat deadly viruses.

disinfect home
Daily disinfecting practices in kitchen 

  • Replace dishcloth and kitchen towel every day.
  • Disinfect the countertop, cutting and chopping boards, sink, cabinet pulls, electronic kitchen appliances and switches everyday.
  • Immediately clean the spots and accidental spills, so they do not attract more pathogens.
  • Empty the dustbin every day and spray it with the disinfectant.

Daily disinfecting practices in bathroom 

  • Clean and disinfect tap and handles.
  • Spray the flush handle and toilet with disinfectant. 
  • Empty the bin daily.
  • Wash the bath towel to prevent microbial growth.

Weekly Disinfecting Practices in kitchen 

  • Clean and disinfect the kitchen sink​
  • Clean all the range knobs and wash other appliances like an oven. 
  • Wash the sink strainers. 

Weekly Disinfecting Practices in bathroom 

  • Clean wash basin, bathtub, showers, shower curtains, doors, cabinets and handles.
  • Also wash soap dispenser, toothbrush holders and even toothbrushes. 

Cleaning Practices in Other Rooms  

  • Change the bedsheet regularly.
  • Wash mattresses in warm water.
  • Don’t shake the bedsheet and blanket vigorously before washing, as it spreads germs and dust across the room. 
  • Mop the floors with a solution of water and cleaner-disinfectant, and vacuum the carpets. 

 

Ittefaq/FS

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