High-Traffic Surfaces
Kitchen Areas
Bathroom Surfaces
Laundry Care
Bedrooms and Toys
Electronics Disinfection
Fresh Air and Ventilation
Self-Care during Recovery
Conclusion
After experiencing an illness like the flu or a cold, it's crucial to disinfect your home to stop the spread of germs and protect the rest of your household. By disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and areas where germs tend to linger, you can reduce the risk of reinfection or passing it on to others.
While it’s always best to avoid being in close contact with sick individuals, once someone has recovered, it’s just as important to sanitize your home thoroughly. Cleaning and disinfecting commonly used surfaces will eliminate any germs that could remain after the illness.
Cold and flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, depending on the surface, so effective cleaning can play a significant role in protecting those who are still healthy in your home.
What’s the Difference Between Cleaning and Disinfecting?Cleaning involves removing dirt and debris with soap and water. Disinfecting goes one step further by using specific disinfectants to kill germs. You should always clean first to remove dirt, followed by disinfecting to kill any lingering germs.
Focus on High-Traffic Areas FirstStart your cleaning by focusing on the areas most commonly touched by family members. Surfaces such as:
- Doorknobs
- Light switches
- Cabinet handles
- Stair rails
If the illness spread in a vehicle, make sure to disinfect car surfaces like the steering wheel, seat belts, and handles.
Clean the Kitchen ThoroughlyThe kitchen is an area with lots of shared surfaces and items. After washing dishes, move on to disinfect the following:
- Refrigerator door handles
- Countertops and sinks
- Coffee makers and appliances
- Light switches and cabinets
- Trash cans
Bathroom DisinfectionAfter a family member recovers from the flu, it’s essential to clean and disinfect the bathroom properly. Focus on:
- Doorknobs
- Faucets and sinks
- Toilets and handles
- Shower or tub
- Light switches and floors
Laundry Needs to Be Washed TooSince flu viruses can survive on soft surfaces, washing all clothing, linens, and towels is important. Make sure to wash using hot water and thoroughly dry items to kill any germs. Don't forget to disinfect laundry baskets as well.
Bedrooms and ToysFor bedrooms, clean and disinfect hard surfaces such as:
- Bedside tables
- Bed frames
- Drawer handles
- Light switches
If children were involved, disinfect their toys by washing soft toys and cleaning hard toys with disinfecting wipes.
Don’t Forget ElectronicsElectronics like smartphones, computers, and remote controls are full of germs due to frequent use. Disinfect these items with a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap or use wipes.
Fresh Air to Clear the SpaceWhen possible, open windows to ventilate the home. Fresh air will help clear out any lingering viruses and allow for better airflow while cleaning.
Take Care of YourselfIf you’re recovering from the flu or cold, it’s best to take your time and ensure your body has fully recovered before cleaning your home. It might also be helpful to get assistance from other family members or professional cleaning services to avoid overexerting yourself.
ConclusionCleaning and disinfecting your home after someone has been sick is an essential step to ensure that germs don’t spread further. Start with high-touch surfaces and move on to other areas of the house, being sure to follow proper cleaning protocols.
By taking the time to thoroughly clean your home, you can help protect your family and prevent additional illness from spreading.