As states around the country continue to see a spike in COVID-19 cases following the first phases of reopening, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has enacted a state-wide mask mandate. In July, several Ohio counties shut down dine-in restaurant services and bars to limit the spread of Coronavirus.
For Ohioans, staying at home and social distancing has become the new normal. Millions of people around the state are working and learning from home and trying to stay self-quarantined as this current surge of cases continues. Although staying at home can help to protect citizens from exposure, it’s important for residents to have their homes properly cleaned and sanitized.
Cleaning experts like Maid For Homes House Cleaners know that keeping your home sanitized is the first line of defense for you and your family. In this article, we are going to explore the difference between cleaning and sanitizing and what measures you can take to stay healthy and safe.
Cleaning Vs. Sanitizing
Cleaning and sanitizing are not the same thing. Cleaning is meant as a removal tool to rid surfaces of dirt, dust and germs. Sanitization involves adding chemicals to surfaces that help to kill pathogens, including COVID-19.
In the fight against Coronavirus, it’s a good idea to both clean and then sanitize your home. Preparing any surface by cleaning with soap and water before you sanitize will enable the chemicals to provide the best results.
Products like Lysol spray and wipes or bleach have been shown to be the most effective sanitizing agents to battle the COVID-19 virus. It’s important to read the instructions on any disinfectant product so that you get the best results. For example, some products should be left on surfaces for several minutes before removal or wiping.
Wash Your Hands
The importance of frequent hand washing can not be underestimated during this pandemic. Germs and bacteria are easily transferred from our hands to our mouth, nose or eyes by simple touching. The CDC recommends washing your hands after any unprotected contact for a minimum of 20 seconds using soap and warm water. If you can’t wash your hands right away, hand sanitizer can be used to help kill the virus until you can get to a washing station.
Surface Cleaning
Living through this pandemic has made most of us highly aware of the number of times that we touch certain surfaces. It’s important that you instill a daily cleaning and disinfection routine around your home to target high-traffic surfaces. Here is a comprehensive list of areas where you should focus your sanitization efforts:
- Doorknobs
- Tables and countertops
- Dining chairs with hard surfaces, including seats and backs
- Bathroom counters and faucets
- Toilet flush handle and seats
- Kitchen faucets
- Light switches
- Fridge door handle
- Remote controls
- Smartphones and computer keyboards
- Game controllers
Regular Laundry
It’s believed that the virus particles can stay on surfaces including fabrics for over 24 hours. During the pandemic, it’s recommended that you don’t wear clothing items more than once between washing. Clothes should be washed after each wear using detergent and warm water and dried on the hottest heat setting appropriate for each item.
Staying home and social distancing is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from becoming infected from COVID-19. It’s up to you to ensure that you create a safe home environment for you and your family by following some of these tips on how to sanitize your home during the pandemic.
