How to clean your home to prevent the spread of coronavirus
It's always a good idea to wash your hands thoroughly and avoid close contact with people who have the disease, but there are other things you can do to deep-clean your home.
The coronavirus is transmitted via respiratory droplets, and the CDC says that current evidence suggests it "may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces made from a variety of materials."
There's already been an increase in demand for cleaning services all around the world, and numerous schools and businesses have closed for deep cleanings.
Here's how the BETAHOME suggests you do a deep-clean.
Clean first, Disinfect later
Cleaning refers to the removal of germs from surfaces. Disinfecting refers to the use of chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. Both can lower the risk of infection spread, but you should clean first, disinfect after.
Don't forget to read the label on your disinfectants. Some need to remain wet for anywhere from two to ten minutes.
Use household cleaners and disinfectants on frequently touched surfaces
Look at tables, doorknobs, light switches and toilets as places to start. Before you disinfect dirty surfaces, clean them with detergent or soap and water.
For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.
Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or
4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
Wear gloves and make sure you have good ventilation while you clean
Wear disposable gloves and throw them out after you're done using them.
If you're using reusable gloves, don't use them for other purposes, and clean your hands immediately after the gloves are removed. Peel the gloves away from your body, pulling them inside out, and try not to let the outside of the glove touch your skin.
