The world has come to a screeching halt. What was expected is now just a thing of the past. People from all over the globe have begun adjusting to the current situation and are applying ardent measures to prevent the further spread of disease. You know what we’re talking about; we all have to face this problem.
So what can you do to prevent the disease from continuously spread? Why the popularly espoused mantra of “disinfect everything,” of course. Studies have shown that the best way to keep the infection from spreading is through disinfection and keeping everyday items clean. However, it can still be challenging to figure out which things or surfaces to disinfect, and that’s what we’re going to take a look at today.
Disinfectants
By now, most households have a collection of disinfecting chemicals within their disposal. Bleach, hydrogen peroxide, grain, and rubbing alcohol; all varieties of disinfecting substances are suddenly prized commodities, and for a good reason. But where to use them on, you might ask? Commonly touched surface areas are one, but there might be some that you’ve overlooked.
1. Smartphones
We bring our smartphones wherever we go, and we used them both in public and in private. We often overlook this device because it’s become so commonplace and ordinary now. Wiping the touchscreen panel with a soft cloth and a decent amount of isopropyl alcohol can do the trick. Don’t forget the back area as well.
2. Keyboards. Mouse, Remote controls, and other peripherals
In a house with more than one person, it’s inevitable to share devices like these. Even if each individual has their own keyboard or mouse, it’s still best practice to clean the surface, especially if the user has gone out in the past few hours.
3. Faucets, fixtures, and other tapware
Since these are fixed devices, it’s unavoidable that they have to be shared. Don’t forget to clean all kinds, be it bathroom tapware or restroom faucets. It’s a good practice to keep rubbing alcohol nearby so you can disinfect yourself too.
4. Knobs and railings
Automatic doors for domestic use aren’t all too common. Most households still use doorknobs to open or close doors; these things need deep cleaning as well. Stair railings are another that might be overlooked, not everyone uses them, but it won’t hurt to make sure they’re clean as well.
5. Desk and table surfaces
Everybody has to use a table at some point during the day. Keeping something so often used might be a hassle, but it’s a necessary hassle. Having cleaning materials near desks and tables are handy to make sure that they get disinfected after every use.
6. Steering wheels
Our hands make contact with the steering wheel at all times whenever we’re driving, but we might not remember what we touched throughout the day. Another thing that’s commonly overlooked, steering wheels can contain viruses for up to several days. Don’t forget to disinfect your steering wheel and your hands after using a steering wheel.
7. Stuffed animals and other fabric items
If you have children who like to bring stuffed animals everywhere, then that’s another suspect too. The fabric in most stuffed animals needs constant cleaning, especially at a time when a very contagious disease is spreading. That includes our clothes (especially the ones we wear going out), handkerchiefs, hats, and other materials. Cloth masks, especially, need to be cleaned regularly.
8. Delivery boxes
The virus can persist on cardboard for 24 hours and up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel. We should disinfect deliveries before even touching the box. While we’d like to trust our delivery personnel, keeping safety and cleanliness measures goes a long way in curbing the pandemic.
Always Keep a Sanitiser with You
Especially for those who have to run errands, keeping a hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol is crucial to prevent the virus from spreading. Due to the high demand for sanitising alcohol, many companies provide them in smaller and more convenient shapes. Cleaning and disinfecting are the easiest ways to prevent the disease from spreading, and we should all do our part of at least carrying a bottle.
Even before the pandemic, constant cleaning seems like a tedious chore. But nowadays, it’s a small price to pay if it means keeping ourselves healthy and safe. There’s no need to panic or lament our situation if we’re prepared. That is the reality we all have to face now, and as responsible citizens, we must adjust accordingly to ensure everyone and our family’s safety.