It’s no doubt the coronavirus pandemic is having profound effects on all of us, and all aspects of our day-to-day living. It can be stressful having to reassess the way we do things– from the way we work, shop, and socialize to the way we clean our homes. That said, being informed and cognizant of potential risks and how to avoid them can make all the difference, not only for our physical health, but also for our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Dealing with COVID Crisis

The CDC has developed a series of comprehensive tips and lists to help people stay safe and keep their families safe in the process, addressing everything from properly disinfecting the home to going out when necessary to dealing with the anxiety invariably comes with a global health crisis. Check out some of their useful COVID-19 information, and armor yourself with knowledge.

Coronavirus Safety At Home

When it comes to keeping your home a safe haven from the virus, cleaning and disinfecting regularly and properly is key.

Cleaning Tips:

  • Wear reusable or disposable gloves for routine cleaning/disinfection.
  • First clean surfaces with soap and water, then used disinfectant.
  • Cleaning with soap and water reduces the number of germs and dirt, while disinfecting kills germs on surfaces.
  • Pay close attention to highly-touched/trafficked surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, countertops, handles, light switches, desks, phones, keyboards, faucets, sinks, toilets, etc.

Soft Surfaces:

  • Clean surfaces using soap and water or cleaners as appropriate for each item.
  • Launder items according to manufacturer’s specifications if possible, using warmest water settings possible, and dry items completely.
  • Disinfect with an EPA-registered disinfectant appropriate for household use. These products meet EPA criteria for combating COVID-19.

It's important to regularly disinfect surfaces such as cellphones to protect against the coronavirus.Disinfecting Electronics:

  • Put wipeable covers on electronics when possible.
  • Always follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and disinfection of electronic devices. If no guidance is provided, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays that contain a minimum of 70% alcohol. Then be sure to dry the surface completely.

Laundry Tips During COVID-19

  • The CDC offers up some tips for handling laundry during the coronavirus pandemic/COVID-19 crisis.Always launder items according to manufacturer’s instructions on labels. Wash with the warmest appropriate water setting, and be sure to dry items thoroughly.
  • When handling dirty laundry– clothing, bedding, and towels– from a person who is ill, wear disposable gloves.
  • It is ok to wash laundry from a person who is sick with items for well household members.
  • Do not shake dirty laundry.
  • Follow guidelines for cleaning surfaces when disinfecting clothes hampers.
  • Remove gloves after handling laundry, and immediately wash hands.

Going Out During COVID-19 Crisis

Sometimes going out is inevitable. You may have a doctor’s appointment that requires you to be in-office. You’ll also have to shop for groceries and other household items from time to time, go to the bank, and put gas in your vehicle. So during these times, it’s important to bear certain things in mind to help keep yourself and others safe.

Things to keep in mind when going out during coronavirus pandemic:

  • Firstly, stay home if you are ill.
  • Make use of online services, delivery, and curb-side pick up services when available.
  • Wear a cloth face covering when out and about.
  • Practice social distancing by staying at least 6 feet away from others.
  • Carry hand sanitizer to use when you leave stores or have to touch potentially infected surfaces.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds immediately upon returning home.
  • Use disinfecting wipes when you must touch items like shopping carts, ATMs, etc.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Use contactless/touchless payment methods when possible. Sanitize hands when you must tough items like money, cards, and keypads.

For more valuable information about how to stay safe, how to properly wash hands, how to effectively practice social distancing, and more, visit the CDC website.