
The Best Way to Disinfect Your Home After Being Sick
It’s that time of year again when the flu and other illnesses seem to be lurking around every corner. Despite our best efforts to stay healthy, sometimes we just can’t avoid getting sick. And when we do, one of the most important things we can do is disinfect our homes. This not only helps prevent the spread of germs to other family members, but it also creates a clean and healthy environment for us to recover in. In this blog post, we’ll share 5 proven techniques to disinfect your home after being sick, so you can bounce back quickly and prevent any further illnesses from taking hold.
Know the High-Touch Areas
Knowing the high-touch areas in your home is essential when it comes to effectively disinfecting after being sick. These areas are the most likely to harbor germs and bacteria, so giving them extra attention is crucial. First and foremost, focus on frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and handrails. These are touched multiple times a day by various people, making them hotspots for spreading germs. Don’t forget about electronics either, such as remote controls, phones, and keyboards, as they can easily become contaminated.
Another area that often gets overlooked is kitchen countertops and handles. From preparing meals to touching packaging, these surfaces come into contact with many hands and can easily transfer bacteria. Be sure to also disinfect bathroom fixtures, faucets, and toilet handles, as they are breeding grounds for germs.
In addition to high-touch areas, consider other surfaces that may be frequently touched during sickness, such as bedside tables, light switches, and cabinet handles in the bedroom. Taking the time to thoroughly clean these areas will further reduce the risk of reinfection and ensure a clean environment for rest and recovery.
By knowing and targeting the high-touch areas in your home, you can effectively minimize the spread of germs and create a healthy environment for yourself and your family.
Choose the Right Disinfecting Products
When it comes to disinfecting your home after being sick, choosing the right products is key. Not all cleaning products are created equal, especially when it comes to effectively killing germs and bacteria. To ensure you’re using the most effective disinfectants, look for products that specifically state they are capable of killing viruses and bacteria, such as those that contain bleach or alcohol.
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can effectively kill a wide range of germs, including viruses like the flu. When using bleach, be sure to follow the instructions on the label, as it needs to be diluted properly to be effective. Alcohol-based disinfectants, such as those containing at least 60% alcohol, are also highly effective at killing germs on surfaces.
In addition to these traditional disinfectants, there are also natural alternatives available. Essential oils, like tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil, have antimicrobial properties and can be used to disinfect surfaces. However, it’s important to note that natural alternatives may not be as effective as bleach or alcohol-based disinfectants.
Remember, whichever disinfecting products you choose, always follow the instructions on the label to ensure proper use and effectiveness. By choosing the right disinfecting products, you can confidently tackle germs and create a clean and healthy home environment.
Pay Special Attention to the Bathroom
When it comes to disinfecting your home after being sick, the bathroom is a crucial area that deserves special attention. It’s no secret that the bathroom can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. From flushing the toilet to washing your hands, various activities in the bathroom can easily spread illness-causing pathogens. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize disinfection in this area to prevent the risk of reinfection and protect your family.
Start by thoroughly cleaning all bathroom surfaces, including countertops, sinks, and faucets. These areas are often touched multiple times a day and can quickly accumulate germs. Don’t forget to scrub the toilet bowl, seat, and handle with a disinfectant specifically designed for bathrooms. Additionally, make sure to clean and disinfect shower handles, soap dispensers, and any other commonly touched objects.
Regularly changing towels and bath mats is another crucial step in maintaining a clean and healthy bathroom. Towels and bath mats can harbor bacteria, so it’s important to wash them frequently, especially if you or a family member has been sick. Use hot water and a quality detergent to ensure a thorough clean.
Lastly, pay attention to ventilation in the bathroom. Proper ventilation helps reduce moisture, preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Open windows, use exhaust fans, or consider a dehumidifier if needed.
By giving the bathroom special attention during your post-illness disinfection routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of spreading germs and create a hygienic environment for everyone in your household.
Wash Bedding and Soft Furnishings
When it comes to disinfecting your home after being sick, it’s important not to overlook your bedding and soft furnishings. These items can easily harbor germs and bacteria, potentially prolonging your illness or causing reinfection. To ensure a thorough clean, it’s crucial to include them in your disinfection routine.
Start by stripping your bed and gathering all bedding items, including sheets, pillowcases, comforters, and blankets. Place them in the washing machine and use the hottest water setting recommended for the fabric. Hot water helps kill any lingering germs and bacteria. Additionally, consider adding a disinfecting laundry additive to further enhance the cleaning power.
While your bedding is being washed, turn your attention to your soft furnishings. This includes items such as couch cushions, throw pillows, and curtains. Depending on the fabric, you may be able to launder them in the washing machine as well. If not, use a fabric-safe disinfectant spray to thoroughly sanitize the surfaces. Don’t forget to also vacuum your furniture to remove any dust, allergens, or germs.
Once your bedding and soft furnishings are clean, ensure they are thoroughly dried before placing them back in your home. Moisture can create an environment for bacteria and mold to thrive, so it’s important to completely dry everything.
By washing your bedding and sanitizing your soft furnishings, you can eliminate any lingering germs and bacteria, creating a clean and healthy environment for recovery. Don’t skip this important step in your post-illness disinfection routine!
Remember to Clean Your Personal Items
While disinfecting high-touch areas and cleaning your bathroom and bedding are crucial steps in creating a germ-free environment after being sick, it’s equally important to remember to clean your personal items. These are the items that come into close contact with your body and can easily harbor germs and bacteria.
Start by cleaning your toothbrush thoroughly. Rinse it with hot water and then soak it in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes to kill any lingering bacteria. You should also replace your toothbrush if you’ve been sick for more than a week.
Don’t forget about your phone and other personal electronics. These devices are constantly being touched and can become breeding grounds for germs. Use disinfectant wipes or a cloth dampened with alcohol to clean the surfaces of your devices.
Additionally, be sure to clean your glasses or contact lenses case. Wash them with soap and warm water or use a lens disinfectant solution. Your eyewear can come into contact with your face and eyes, so keeping them clean is essential.
Lastly, don’t overlook your personal care items such as hairbrushes, combs, and makeup brushes. These items can collect dirt, oils, and bacteria. Clean them with warm water and mild soap or use a brush cleaner specifically designed for the task.
By cleaning your personal items, you can eliminate any lingering germs and bacteria and ensure a truly clean and healthy home environment after being sick.