How to Disinfect Your House After the Flu
Disinfecting your home after the flu involves killing germs on various surfaces. This helps prevent other members of your household or visitors from getting sick. If you or someone in your household has recently recovered from the flu, it’s essential to thoroughly clean your home to eliminate lingering viruses and bacteria.
The flu virus can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours and on unwashed hands for about an hour. Here’s a comprehensive guide to disinfecting your house after the flu.
Cleaning vs. Disinfecting
Cleaning involves removing germs, dust, and dirt from surfaces using soap and water. Disinfecting targets germs and involves using commercial products such as sprays, wipes, or bleaches.
Tip: Always clean surfaces first and then disinfect them for the most effective germ removal.
High-Traffic Surfaces
High-traffic surfaces are the most likely to harbor germs. Start by disinfecting commonly touched areas, such as:
- Doorknobs
- Light switches
- Drawer handles
- Stair rails
If someone was sick in your vehicle, clean and disinfect areas like the steering wheel, door handles, navigation screens, and seat belts. Use disinfecting wipes and follow manufacturer instructions for proper germ-killing results. Always wash your hands after cleaning.
Kitchen Surfaces
In the kitchen, focus on cleaning and disinfecting areas that are frequently touched:
- Refrigerator door handles
- Cabinets and drawers
- Light switches
- Countertops
- Sinks, faucets, and handles
- Coffee makers or tea kettles
- Appliances like microwaves and ovens
- Garbage cans
Wash dishes, utensils, and drinking glasses in hot, soapy water or in the dishwasher.
Bathroom Surfaces
Bathrooms require thorough cleaning and disinfecting after someone has recovered from the flu. Focus on:
- Doorknobs
- Sinks and faucets
- Countertops
- Light switches
- Tubs and showers
- Toilets and toilet paper holders
- Soap dispensers
- Floors
Don’t forget often-overlooked areas like toothbrush holders and tissue box holders. Consider replacing toothbrushes to avoid lingering germs.
Laundry
Flu viruses can survive on soft surfaces like clothing and linens. Wash all laundry items, including:
- Clothing
- Bedding
- Towels
Use detergent and the hottest water temperature allowed on labels, then dry items thoroughly. Clean and disinfect laundry baskets and hampers using disinfecting sprays or wipes.
Bedrooms
Disinfecting bedrooms involves cleaning both hard and soft surfaces:
- Doorknobs and light switches
- Bedside tables and bed frames
- Drawer handles
Vacuum carpets and mop hard flooring. For children’s toys, machine-wash soft toys in pillowcases and clean hard toys with soap and water before disinfecting.
Electronics
Electronics are some of the germiest surfaces in your home. To disinfect:
- Use a lint-free cloth dampened with warm water and soap.
- Alternatively, use disinfecting wipes (but avoid alcohol-based products that may damage screens).
Clean:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Remote controls
- Personal computers and keyboards
Consider using wipeable covers on electronics to make cleaning easier.
Let in Fresh Air
If weather permits, open windows to ventilate your home. Fresh air helps reduce stagnant germs in the air and improves air circulation while cleaning.
Self-Care During Recovery
If you’ve been sick, ensure you’re fully recovered before tackling deep cleaning. Enlist help from household members or a professional cleaning service if needed. Rest is crucial for a complete recovery.
Takeaway
The flu is highly contagious and spreads easily, especially indoors. Cleaning and disinfecting your home is essential to prevent further infections. Start with high-traffic areas and work through other surfaces systematically.
Tips for Success:
- Wear gloves and a mask while disinfecting.
- Follow manufacturer instructions on disinfectants.
- Wash your hands frequently.
By taking these steps, you can create a clean, germ-free environment and protect your household from further illness.
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