Disinfecting surfaces around your home is an essential step for reducing the spread of coronavirus. Of course, it might be challenging to disinfect and sanitize when grocery stores are consistently running out of Lysol, Clorox, and other common brands of disinfectant wipes and sprays. Fortunately, you probably have what you need at home to effectively clean and sanitize countertops, doorknobs, and other potentially problematic surfaces.
Soap and Water
For everyday cleaning, soap and water are your best bet. It’s also a good first step before disinfecting. If surfaces are covered in dirt and grime, disinfectant won’t be enough to keep things germ-free.
Bleach
One of the best disinfectant workhorses you can keep at home is bleach. While you do need to use caution with bleach to avoid inhaling fumes, irritating your skin, and discoloring certain surfaces, it is a reliable way to disinfect most surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom. For most surfaces, household bleach should be diluted at a ratio of about one cup bleach per 5 gallons of water. Bleach should also never be mixed with other cleansers, vinegar, or ammonia. Open windows before sanitizing with bleach and wear rubber or latex gloves when handling bleach.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Your medicine cabinet likely contains another disinfectant you can go to in a pinch: hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is made at a low concentration, so it doesn’t need to be diluted. It can also be combined with baking soda for a powerful cleansing scrub for sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.
Rubbing Alcohol
For electronic devices and other odd surfaces that aren’t easily cleaned with soap and water, rubbing alcohol is a good choice. 70% alcohol solution is ideal, as it’s actually a more effective disinfectant than 91% alcohol in many situations.
If you’re unsure how to stay healthy and well during the COVID-19 pandemic, it can help to check in with a doctor for some practical tips and peace of mind. Connect with MeMD to see a medical provider remotely anytime, day or night.
