Disinfecting our surroundings has never been as crucial as it is today in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The highly contagious virus can survive on surfaces for hours or even days, making it crucial to maintain cleanliness and hygiene to keep the infection at bay. With most of us spending a significant amount of time at home due to lockdowns and work from home protocols, disinfecting objects and parts of the house has become even more critical. In this article, we will look at some effective ways to disinfect household items and surfaces like phones, laptops, door knobs, tables, kitchen appliances, bags, shoes, and others.
1. Use Alcohol-Based Wipes
Alcohol-based wipes are one of the most convenient ways to disinfect objects like phones, laptops, door knobs, tables, and other surfaces. These wipes contain a high percentage of alcohol that is effective in killing germs and viruses. You can use them to clean your phone screen, keyboard, and other surfaces that you touch frequently.
Alcohol-based wipes are readily available at most grocery stores and pharmacies. You can also make your own alcohol-based solution by mixing 70% isopropyl alcohol with a few drops of water. Make sure to use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe the surfaces and dispose of them after use.
2. Disinfect Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it is also one of the most germ-prone areas. To disinfect your kitchen appliances, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water or a disinfectant spray. Pay special attention to the handles and knobs of your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher as these are the areas that are most frequently touched.
To make your disinfectant solution, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle. You can add a few drops of essential oil to mask the vinegar’s strong smell. Spray the solution on the surfaces and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean.
3. Clean Your Bags and Shoes
Our bags and shoes can carry a lot of germs and bacteria, making it essential to disinfect them regularly. To disinfect your bags, you can use a disinfectant spray or wipe. For shoes, you can use a disinfectant spray or a mixture of water and vinegar.
To disinfect your bags, wipe them with a disinfectant wipe, paying special attention to the handles and zippers. For shoes, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray the solution inside the shoes. Let the shoes dry in the sun or in a well-ventilated area.
4. Use a UV Light
Ultraviolet (UV) light can effectively kill germs and viruses. You can use a UV light wand to disinfect your phone, laptop, and other objects. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid looking directly at the light.
UV light wands are available online or in specialty stores. They emit UVC light, which is known to kill germs and viruses. To use the wand, hold it over the object you want to disinfect and move it back and forth for a few minutes. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
5. Steam Clean
Steam cleaning is an effective way to disinfect carpets, curtains, and upholstery. Steam can kill up to 99.9% of germs and viruses, making it a popular choice for disinfecting household items.
You can rent a steam cleaner from a hardware store or hire a professional cleaning service. To use a steam cleaner, fill the tank with water and turn it on. The steam will penetrate the fabric, killing any germs or viruses present. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and wear gloves and protective gear while using the steam cleaner
6. Wash Your Hands Frequently
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and viruses is to wash your hands frequently. Make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Wash your hands before and after handling food, after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing, and after coming into contact with high-touch surfaces like door knobs and tables.
7. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
High-touch surfaces like door knobs, tables, and countertops can harbor a lot of germs and viruses. To disinfect these surfaces, you can use a disinfectant spray or wipe.
Make sure to clean these surfaces at least once a day, or more frequently if someone in your household is sick. Pay special attention to areas that are frequently touched, like light switches, remote controls, and faucets.
8. Use a HEPA Filter
A HEPA filter is a high-efficiency air filter that can trap small particles like pollen, dust, and viruses. You can use a HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner or air purifier to trap airborne germs and viruses.
HEPA filters are available at most home appliance stores. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance.
In conclusion, disinfecting your surroundings is crucial to prevent the spread of germs and viruses, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. By following the tips mentioned above, you can effectively disinfect household items and surfaces like phones, laptops, door knobs, tables, kitchen appliances, bags, shoes, and others. Make sure to follow proper hygiene practices like washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask in public to stay safe and healthy.
About The Author
Dr. Krisca is a highly-educated and skilled physician who has obtained a BS Public Health degree from the University of the Philippines Manila and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the De La Salle Medical Health Sciences Institute. She is a licensed physician and also a Registered Medical Technologist. She has received additional training in Hemodialysis for Non-Nephro Physicians on duty and has completed online courses in related fields like depression in populations from John Hopkins University and positive psychiatry from The University of Sydney. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of International Health in the University of the Philippines.
Dr. Krisca is known for her outstanding skills and compassionate approach to healthcare that make a positive impact on people’s lives. Through her passion for healthcare, she hopes to make a difference in the world and help people lead healthier, happier lives.
