During these difficult times, we’ve all gotten used to limiting contact and taking extra precautions with where we go and what we touch, in the interest of keeping our families and each other safe. By now, social distancing and ultra-frequent hand-washing have become normal parts of everyday life.

But how can we protect ourselves from COVID-19 inside our own homes?

According to the CDC, the virus mainly spreads from person-to-person contact but may also be spread by “touching a surface or object that has the virus on it.”

Here, we discuss how to adapt your routine to ensure your home remains a safe and clean space. Follow these tips and get ready to relax with your loved ones and enjoy peace of mind.

Disinfect busy areas

You’re already great at maintaining a physical distance and washing your hands after you’ve been out in public – but what about all the steps between the front door and the bathroom sink?

The worry is that if you touch a surface that the virus is on and then touch your face, you could get sick. Reduce the chance of spread by making it a habit to regularly disinfect the busy surfaces in your home.

Use CDC approved cleaning products on high-traffic areas, such as:

• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Faucets
• Cellphones
• Keyboards and mice
• TV and gaming controllers
• Handrails
• Tables and counters
• Toilets (including the flush lever)
• Wear gloves

COVID-19 cleaning tips

When cleaning these areas, be sure to wear a designated pair of gloves and eye protection and keep the area properly ventilated.

Usually, it’s recommended to spray and area and leave it for about 10 minutes before wiping up – always read the cleaning instructions on the label.

Treat groceries with care

There is no evidence yet to show that the virus can spread through food, but there is the chance that it could linger food packaging in environments where there is a high amount of contact between people and products.

Be mindful of how you bring your groceries into your home – wear gloves, wash fruit and vegetables, wipe down boxes, cans, and plastic before handling them, and dispose of bags and unnecessary packaging.

It goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyways – wash your hands after visiting the store and handling food products.

Keep on top of laundry

Studies suggest that the virus can ‘survive’ on cloth material for up to two days.

Be mindful of your clothing and upholstery – if you’ve found yourself out in a busy area or you suspect someone with the virus may have been in your home, take action.

Toss anything that’s washing-machine friendly, such as clothing, towels, cushion covers and small rugs, in on the warmest setting possible – just be sure to check the labels first.

Clean floor policy

Just as the virus can sustain itself on clothing and upholstery for a given amount of time, it can ‘survive’ on the floor. It’s easy to implement a few routine rules, which will help to protect your home.

Before you do anything, stop and take your shoes off. Studies have found that COVID-19 can be tracked around on the soles of shoes, so skip the risk by leaving your shoes at the door.

Amp up your vacuuming and dusting routine, as it’s possible for the virus to stick around on surfaces for a few days. Tile and ceramic and be washed with a diluted bleach solution but be careful when treating hardwood and laminate flooring.

If possible, consider having your carpets professionally cleaned – not only does it provide a fresh slate and eliminate harmful germs and irritants, but it’ll create a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere for those days ahead spent at home.

For more information about how we’re tailoring our services to be mindful of COVID-19, read our blog.