Dealing with an illness in the household can be stressful, but ensuring a thorough cleaning and disinfecting routine afterward is crucial to prevent the spread of germs and safeguard the health of your family. This guide provides detailed steps on how to effectively clean and disinfect your home after someone has been sick.
Understanding the Difference: Cleaning vs. Disinfecting
Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand the distinction between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning involves removing dirt, dust, and impurities from surfaces, which can reduce the number of germs but doesn’t necessarily kill them. Disinfecting, on the other hand, involves using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. Both steps are essential for comprehensive home sanitation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Disinfecting
1. Gather Your Supplies
Ensure you have all the necessary supplies:
- Disposable gloves
- Masks
- Disinfectant wipes or sprays (EPA-registered)
- Microfiber cloths
- Garbage bags
- Soap and water
- Laundry detergent
2. Ventilate Your Home
Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. This helps reduce indoor air pollutants and airborne germs.
3. Protect Yourself
Wear disposable gloves and masks to protect yourself from germs while cleaning. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after removing gloves.
4. Start with Cleaning
High-Touch Surfaces: Clean high-touch surfaces first. These include doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, phones, keyboards, tablets, countertops, and bathroom fixtures. Use soap and water or a cleaner designed for these surfaces.
Bedrooms and Living Areas: Strip and wash bed linens, pillowcases, and any blankets used by the sick person. Launder these items in the warmest water setting recommended on the care label and dry them completely.
Bathrooms: Clean toilet handles, faucets, sinks, and other high-touch areas. Use a disinfectant cleaner to wipe down all surfaces.
5. Disinfect Thoroughly
After cleaning, apply an EPA-registered disinfectant to high-touch surfaces and allow the disinfectant to remain on surfaces for the recommended time to ensure effectiveness. Follow the instructions on the label for proper use.
6. Laundry Care
Wash clothes, towels, and linens used by the sick person separately from other household laundry. Use hot water and a high-heat setting for drying. Wear disposable gloves when handling soiled items and avoid shaking the laundry to prevent dispersing the virus into the air.
7. Kitchen Care
Disinfect kitchen surfaces, including countertops, cabinet handles, and appliance handles. Ensure dishes and utensils used by the sick person are washed in a dishwasher or with hot water and soap.
8. Waste Disposal
Dispose of gloves, masks, and any other disposable cleaning materials in a lined garbage can. Use a trash bag that can be tied shut and immediately remove it from the home. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling and disposing of waste.
9. Soft Surfaces
For soft surfaces like carpets, rugs, and drapes, clean with appropriate cleaners. If possible, launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions using the warmest appropriate water setting and dry completely.
Preventive Measures
- Regular Cleaning: Incorporate regular cleaning and disinfecting routines, especially during flu season or when someone in your home is ill.
- Hand Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing among household members.
- Isolation: If possible, keep the sick person in a separate room and use a separate bathroom to minimize contact.
Conclusion
Cleaning and disinfecting your home after an illness is crucial for preventing the spread of germs and ensuring the health and safety of your family. By following this comprehensive guide, you can effectively sanitize your living space and create a cleaner, healthier environment. Remember, consistent cleaning practices are your first line of defense against the spread of illness.
Stay healthy, stay clean, and take proactive steps to protect your household.
