There is still much that we have yet to understand about this novel coronavirus that’s been spreading havoc on a global scale. However, the one thing we know is that the primary mode of transmission is through water droplets. The moment these water droplets emitted by an infected person land on a surface and are touched by another person, chances are that this deadly virus has successfully transferred to a new host.
This is the reason why the call for social distancing and washing hands thoroughly has been repeated time and again – to break the cycle of infection. But if you want to nip this coronavirus at the bud in your own home, disinfection is key.
Cleaning vs. disinfection
First, we have to distinguish between simple cleaning and disinfection.
Cleaning involves the removal of dust particles and germs from surfaces at home. Soap and water are used for a deep clean.
Disinfecting, meanwhile, involves the use of an Environmental Protection Agency-registered disinfecting product. The aim here is not only to remove germs but to kill them.
It is recommended that both cleaning and disinfecting should be done to make sure that no harmful organisms like the coronavirus can return to breed in your home.
Home disinfecting guide
- What to use. Spritz your chosen disinfectant from a spray bottle on surfaces and spread it using a washcloth. Make sure you protect your hands with disposable gloves. For those with sensitive respiratory systems, a face mask will protect you from the disinfectant’s strong fumes.
- How to disinfect. Avoid recontaminating an area that you’ve already cleaned and disinfected by washing your washcloth or changing disposable wipes often. For flat surfaces like tables, start your disinfection procedure on one end, slowly moving your washcloth or disposable wipe in an S-shaped pattern over the surface until you reach the other end.
What to disinfect every day or as often as needed:
- Surfaces that are often touched by many people like doorknobs, light switches, faucets, keys, tables, chairs, and the like.
- For electronic devices that are often handled (remote controls, mobile cell phones, PCs and laptops, etc.), extra caution must be used in disinfecting them. Use alcohol-based wipes or cloth lightly moisturized with 70% alcohol for said items.
General cleaning and disinfecting guidelines:
- For hard, non-porous surfaces. Dirty surfaces will require cleaning with soap and water prior to disinfection. Use disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting then throw these away properly afterward. You can also prepare a bleach solution for use on household surfaces.
- For soft, porous surfaces. This includes clothes, rugs, carpets, and the like. Launder these according to their respective manufacturers’ instructions. It is best to use the warmest settings in your washing machine for your laundry.
Reminder. Throughout the entire cleaning and disinfecting process, always keep in mind never to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. Even if you pick up something nasty and potentially deadly in the duration of your work, you won’t end up getting sick with it.
The moment we emerge from our homes at the end of these lockdowns, we will be entering a new normal in the way we conduct our lives in a post-pandemic world. And disinfecting our home on a regular basis should be a great takeaway from this experience.
Call us, David & Sunny, for all your real estate requirements at 650.489.6251. You can also send us a message to davidandsunny(at)compass(dotted)com. Let’s all make a big difference in this COVID-19 season by keeping safe at home.