How to Properly Sanitize High-Touch Areas in Your Home
Maintaining a clean and sanitary home is essential for the health and well-being of your family. High-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls, can harbor germs and bacteria that contribute to illness. At Belle Home, we understand the importance of thorough cleaning and sanitation. Here's a guide on how to effectively sanitize these commonly touched areas to prevent the spread of germs.
Identifying High-Touch Areas
Before diving into the cleaning process, identify the high-touch areas in your home. These surfaces are frequently touched throughout the day, making them prime locations for the accumulation of germs. Key high-touch areas include:
- Doorknobs and handles
- Light switches
- Remote controls
- Faucet handles
- Appliance handles (refrigerator, microwave, oven)
- Toilet flush handles
- Drawer and cabinet pulls
- Electronics (phones, tablets, keyboards, remote controls)
Steps to Properly Sanitize High-Touch Areas
Gather Your Supplies
Disinfectant Cleaner: Use an EPA-approved disinfectant for killing viruses and bacteria. Check the label to ensure it's suitable for the surfaces you're cleaning.
Microfiber Cloths: These are effective at trapping germs and are gentle on surfaces.
Gloves: Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands and prevent the spread of germs.
Clean Before You Disinfect
Remove Dirt and Debris: Before disinfecting, clean the surfaces with soap and water to remove any visible dirt or grime. This helps the disinfectant work more effectively.
Use a Mild Cleaner: For delicate surfaces, use a mild cleaner or a mixture of water and a small amount of dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
Apply the Disinfectant
Read the Instructions: Follow the disinfectant's label instructions for proper use, including how long it needs to sit on the surface to effectively kill germs.
Spray and Wipe: Spray the disinfectant directly onto the surface or onto a clean cloth, then wipe the area thoroughly. Ensure the surface stays wet for the recommended contact time.
Focus on High-Touch Areas
Doorknobs and Toilet/Faucet/Cabinet/Drawer Handles: Clean and disinfect both sides of the doorknob or handle, as well as the surrounding area.
Light Switches: Do not spray light switches with liquid. Instead, dampen a cloth with disinfectant and wipe the switch and plate.
Remote Controls and Electronics: Use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with disinfectant. Avoid getting moisture into any openings. Focus on buttons and other frequently touched parts.
Dry and Dispose
Air Dry or Wipe Dry: Allow the surfaces to air dry, or use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess moisture after the disinfectant has had time to work.
Dispose of Gloves: Remove and dispose of gloves safely. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward
Tips for Ongoing Sanitation
- Daily Routine: Incorporate the sanitizing of high-touch areas into your daily cleaning routine to keep germs at bay.
- Wash Hands Regularly: Encourage everyone in your household to wash their hands frequently, especially after touching high-touch surfaces.
- Use Protective Covers: Consider using washable or disposable covers for items like remote controls and keyboards to make cleaning easier.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with health guidelines and recommendations from trusted sources like the CDC and WHO.
Contact Belle Home for Professional Cleaning Services
Keeping your home clean and sanitary can be a challenging task, especially with a busy schedule. At Belle Home, we offer professional cleaning services in Connecticut to help you maintain a healthy living environment. Our experienced team uses high-quality products and thorough techniques to remove dust, cobwebs, allergens and germs and make your home sparkle. Call us at (203) 647-0383 to book an appointment or request a quotehere. Let Belle Home take care of your cleaning needs, so you can enjoy a safer and cleaner home.