Given the hard times we are facing now because of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 we consider it is necessary to know how to use different products for the best antibacterial cleaning.
From what it’s known until now, the transmission of novel coronavirus to persons from surfaces contaminated with the virus has not been documented. Transmission of coronavirus, in general, occurs much more commonly through respiratory droplets than through contact with contaminated surfaces. From the piece of information we have until now, cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for the prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses.
The microbiology textbook may come in handy if you’re interested in most effectively disinfecting your home.
If you’re interested in most effectively disinfecting your home, then look no further than a microbiology textbook. You’ll be well on your way to a truly spick-and-span household by understanding where germs are most likely to lurk, which ones are actually likely to impose a risk, and, finally, how to prevent contamination.
Sally Bloomfield, Honorary Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and hygiene consultant with the International Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene answers our most ardent questions.
Here are a few items to consider for your own arsenal:
Liquid Hand Soap
Did you know that bar soap can spread infections from one person to another? That is the reason why you should opt for a liquid soap instead. Use clean running water to thoroughly wash your hands. This piece of advice is given by all specialists. The best way to keel germs is to wash your hand with soap. If you are out and you don’t have where to clean your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It may not be as effective as washing your hands, but it is useful.
Clean Hand Towel
Same principle here: you’re exposing yourself to microbes that could potentially make you sick—some viruses and bacteria can live on fabric for eight to 12 hours when you’re drying your just-washed hands on a hand towel someone else has already used. After washing your hands, it’s always best to use a fresh towel, or better a paper towel.
Antibacterial Spray or Wipes
Bloomfield recommends using an antimicrobial detergent and then rinsing thoroughly with clean water for food contact surfaces like counters, dishes and flatware. Cleaning with a detergent of your choice, then disinfecting with a bleach-based antibacterial spray or disinfecting wipes, like Lysol or Clorox is a great practice for large surfaces like counters or tables.
Disposable Cleaning Cloths
For most everyday messes it is ok to use your traditional microfiber cloth. But if you want to prevent spreading germs, it’s always best to use a disposable option—ideally inexpensive, disposable, biodegradable cloths, like paper towels. Bloomfield says: “This is because when you clean a surface, the microbes go onto the cloth and then spread to the next surface you wipe,” she says.
Bathroom Cleaner
Mold and mildew can contribute to health problems like skin irritation or breathing problems and they are often met in the bathroom area. The recommendation is to use products that keep commonly damp surfaces, like bathroom tiles or showers, clean.
Keep your house clean and stay safe!
