Remember to clean first, disinfect later
Cleaning refers to the removal of germs from surfaces. Disinfecting refers to the use of chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. Both can lower the risk of infection spread, but you should clean first, disinfect after.
Don't forget to read the label on your disinfectants. Some need to remain wet for anywhere from two to ten minutes.
Use household cleaners and disinfectants on frequently touched surfaces.
Look at tables, doorknobs, light switches and toilets as places to start. Before you disinfect dirty surfaces, clean them with detergent or soap and water.
For disinfecting, you can use alcohol solutions that contains at least 70% alcohol, household disinfectants registered with the EPA, or diluted household bleach solutions. Don't use expired products, and don't mix bleach with any other cleaners. Common household disinfectant brands on the EPA list include Lysol and Clorox.
The CDC recommends people create their own bleach solutions by mixing 5 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water.
Wear gloves and make sure you have good ventilation while you clean.
Wear disposable gloves and throw them out after your done using them, according to the CDC.
If you're using reusable gloves, don't use them for other purposes and clean your hands immediately after the gloves are removed. Peel the gloves away from your body, pulling them inside out and try not to let the outside of the glove touch your skin.
Wash laundry on the warmest setting possible.
There is no need to shake dirty laundry as that can spread viruses through the air. Use the warmest appropriate water setting for washing the items and let them dry completely afterward.
If you're not using gloves when washing dirty laundry make sure to wash your hands afterwards. Also, consider washing the laundry bag that holds your clothes as that surface can also collect germs and viruses.
Clean your electronics.
Phones and tablets are what the CDC calls "high touch" surfaces, so you're going to want to clean them. You should avoid using rubbing alcohol, disinfectants, or similar sprays, Business Insider previously reported, in part because using them can damage the protective coating on your phone's screen.
Instead, turn off your device, lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with soap and water, and scrub the screen. You can also use a UV sanitation device, which beams UV-C rays at your phone in order to kill germs.
