6 Essential Tips to Clean and Disinfect High-Touch Areas at Home During COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining rigorous hygiene at home is crucial to prevent bringing the virus indoors.

No one wants to risk letting it linger unnoticed. The outbreak has reshaped our daily routines, prioritizing cleanliness to safeguard our families.

We've compiled expert-recommended items to clean first, drawing from health guidelines and studies on viral survival.

Here are 6 high-touch areas to wash and disinfect more frequently:

Contents

• 1. Smartphones, tablets, keyboards, remote controls, and video game controllers
• 2. Door handles, stair railings, and light switches
• 3. Countertops, surfaces, tables, and desks
• 4. Floors throughout the home
• 5. Bed linens, sheets, and towels
• 6. Bathroom and toilet

1. Smartphones, Tablets, Keyboards, Remote Controls, and Video Game Controllers

The virus can transfer to smartphones, tablets, keyboards, remote controls, and game controllers. Touched dozens of times daily, these devices need regular disinfection.

Avoid standard cleaners that might damage screens or electronics. Instead, follow our proven methods: detailed steps for smartphones and tablets here, keyboard tips here. These also work for remotes and controllers.

2. Door Handles, Stair Railings, and Light Switches

These everyday touchpoints are contamination hotspots. Clean them at least daily, plus after shopping trips.

Our tutorial here ensures thorough cleaning. Include cabinet handles, fridge, and freezer doors where food is stored.

3. Countertops, Surfaces, Tables, and Desks

British studies show the coronavirus can survive on surfaces like plastic for up to 3 days. Disinfect frequently, including chairs.

White vinegar effectively removes contaminants. For complete pathogen elimination, use diluted bleach or alcohol-based disinfectants. Homemade wipes made this way are convenient.

4. Floors Throughout the Home

Shoes and shopping bags can track in contaminants. Mop more often, especially entry areas. Our homemade cleanser eliminates 95% of bacteria.

If someone is ill, avoid vacuums per government advice to prevent aerosolizing the virus.

5. Bed Linens, Sheets, and Towels

Wash clothes after outdoor contact. Linens, towels, and dishcloths harbor the virus too. Use a 30-minute machine wash at 60°C, as recommended by the High Council for Public Health.

Homemade detergents like this one work just as well.

6. Bathroom and Toilet

Studies from infected households confirm viral presence in bathrooms. Regularly clean sinks and bowls—white vinegar disinfects toilets effectively, no bleach needed.

Now you're equipped to target these areas and minimize COVID-19 risk.

Reminder: White vinegar inactivates the virus but doesn't kill it. Use diluted bleach or alcohol for complete destruction.