How to Sanitize Your Homes Surfaces

Introduction

Keeping your home clean and sanitized has never been more important. With illnesses spreading more easily than ever, it’s crucial to disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly. In this article, I will provide an in-depth guide on how to properly sanitize the various surfaces in your home.

Supplies You Will Need

To properly sanitize your home, you will need:

• Disinfectant wipes or spray: Look for EPA-approved disinfectants that are known to kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Bleach solutions and alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol also work.

• Microfiber cloths: These grab and remove germs more effectively than regular rags or paper towels.

• Gloves: Wearing gloves protects your hands while cleaning. Latex, nitrile, and rubber gloves work best.

• Mask: Wearing a mask prevents you from touching your face and inhaling cleaning fumes.

How to Sanitize Different Surfaces

Hard Surfaces – Tables, Counters, Appliances

Hard, non-porous surfaces are the easiest to disinfect. Here are the steps:

1. Wear gloves and a mask.

2. If surfaces are visibly dirty, clean them first with soap and water. Rinse and let air dry.

3. Apply your disinfectant and leave it on for the recommended contact time on the label. For bleach solutions, leave them on for at least 1 minute before wiping.

4. Wipe down the surfaces with microfiber cloths or disposable paper towels.

5. Allow to fully air dry. Do not wipe disinfectants off before they can work.

Electronics – Phones, Tablets, Remote Controls

Follow these steps to safely disinfect electronics:

1. Turn off and unplug devices before disinfecting.

2. Dampen a microfiber cloth with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution. Do not spray liquids directly on devices.

3. Gently wipe down all hard, non-porous surfaces. Avoid getting moisture in any openings.

4. Let air dry fully before turning electronics on again.

Soft Surfaces – Carpets, Rugs, Furniture

Soft and porous items are trickier to sanitize. Here are some methods:

• Launder machine-washable items like linens and pillow covers in hot water and dry thoroughly.

• Steam clean carpets, rugs, and furniture. The heat helps kill germs and viruses.

• If laundering or steam cleaning isn’t an option, spray downy-filled items with a disinfectant labeled “suitable for porous surfaces.” Let soak in according to directions before air drying.

High-Touch Areas – Doorknobs, Light Switches, Toilets

High-touch areas should be a priority when sanitizing. Follow these best practices:

• Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, and other high-touch items multiple times per day. Apply disinfectant and allow proper contact time before wiping.

• Clean and disinfect sinks and toilets thoroughly using EPA-approved disinfectants. Scrub all surfaces with a brush and rinse.

• Focus on frequently handled spots like faucet handles, toilet handles, toilet rims, and toilet seats.

• Allow proper air drying time before using disinfected bathrooms and sinks again.

Safety Tips

Follow these tips to sanitize safely:

• Never mix bleach solutions with other cleaners, especially anything containing ammonia. This creates toxic gases.

• Open windows and use fans to ventilate areas when disinfecting. Avoid inhaling fumes.

• Store disinfectants securely away from children and pets.

• Remove gloves carefully to avoid contamination and wash hands after cleaning.

• Wash all food surfaces and dishes with soap and water after disinfecting nearby areas.

Conclusion

Sanitizing your home thoroughly and regularly is crucial to protect your family’s health. Focus on disinfecting high-touch surfaces multiple times per day. Always use EPA-approved disinfectants and ventilate areas during and after cleaning. With the right supplies and techniques, you can eliminate illness-causing germs in your home’s surfaces. Stay safe and healthy!