Top cleaning tips to help protect your family against the coronavirus

The coronavirus, known as COVID-19, is becoming more and more of a concern for mamas everywhere. Experts advise taking extra steps to keep your home free of germs (especially with messy little ones around), not only to prevent illness but also to keep it from spreading if someone is already sick.

Research shows that coronavirus is generally transmitted when an infected person produces respiratory droplets that can affect someone nearby, usually within 6 feet. According to Aubree Gordon, an epidemiologist and associate professor at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, coronavirus germs can also spread in other ways. “It is also possibly transmitted through indirect transmission, where the virus is deposited on a surface, people touch the surface and then their mouth, nose or eyes.”

For more information about how to protect yourself in public places and at home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other organizations have published guidelines for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Here are some ways to disinfect your home on a daily and weekly basis:

Daily disinfecting routines to prevent the spread of coronavirus:

In the kitchen:

• Clean and disinfect countertops, sink hardware, cabinet pulls, appliance handles + cutting boards.
• Use dishcloths you can wash on the hot cycle. Replace towels and dishcloths each day.
• Clean spills quickly so they don’t attract more dirt and bacteria.
• Empty wastebaskets and take out any garbage daily. Spray trash cans with disinfectant each time.

In the bathroom:

• Clean and disinfect the bathroom faucet and handles.
• Empty wastebaskets and disinfect them daily.
• Spray the toilet and flush handle with disinfectant or sanitizing wipes.
• Do not use bath towels or wash clothes more than once to prevent the growth of germs and bacteria.

Weekly disinfecting routines to prevent coronavirus:

In the kitchen:

• Wash kitchen sink strainers in the dishwasher.
• Remove and hand wash oven and range knobs.
• Clean and disinfect the kitchen sinks.

In the bathroom:

• Wash your toothbrush holder and toothbrushes and disinfect them. If they are dishwasher-safe, run them through with your dishes.
• Clean and disinfect your bathtub and shower, including the shower doors and handles. If you have a shower curtain that is machine washable, throw it in the washer.

Other rooms within your home:

• Wash bedding in hot water. Limit shaking out your blankets and sheets before washing to minimize the spread of dust and germs.
• Mop hard-surface floors and vacuum carpets.
• Disinfect computer keyboards and mice, light switches, cell phones and remote controls. Be sure to turn off the power on any electronics before cleaning or disinfecting.

Originally posted on Maids.com

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