Stuck in the House? Why Not Do Some Spring Cleaning
When the temperatures rise it often serves as a signal that it’s time to get into spring cleaning mode. But this year, spring cleaning has taken on a whole new meaning with the COVID-19 outbreak. As we are all physical distancing in our homes, this is a great time to make cleaning a priority. Not only will your home be cleaner and more organized, but it is actually good for your mental health.
A boost for your mental health
Being home and spending so much time listening to the news and physical distancing can take its toll on event the strongest-minded individual. Spring cleaning can help pass some time and take your mind off of all the stressful things going on right now. And when you are finished de-cluttering, the accomplishment will make you feel even better and reduce built-up tension.
Just do it!
Starting, of course, is the hardest part. But once you find the motivation it will be smooth sailing. Encourage your kids—who are probably bored of being stuck inside—to clean out their closet or drawers. They may find something they had been looking for that got lost in the mess.
Let’s clean the right way to stop the virus
As recommended by the CDC, to prevent the spread of germs, people should routinely clean frequently touched surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets and sinks with household cleaners and Environmental Protection Agency registered disinfectants appropriate for the surface. For homes where a COVID-19 patient – either confirmed or suspected – resides household members should clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas such as tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets and sinks frequently.
Other cleaning tips for COVID-19 households include having a dedicated bedroom and bathroom for the patient, where cleaning frequency should be reduced to cleaning as needed to avoid unnecessary contact with the sick person.
All disinfectants require a certain amount of time on surfaces to be the most effective. Some disinfectants take up to ten minutes to kill common germs and viruses. That means you should keep the surface wet with disinfectant for the duration of the recommended time. To keep surfaces wet long enough, you may have to reapply the disinfectant.
With a little elbow grease and some time, we can get through this challenging time. Keeping busy and protecting ourselves and our loved ones is key. Here’s to spring and keeping clean!
Sources:
CDC
Cleveland Clinic
Refinery29