If COVID-19 is a war then Stay Safe, Stay Home is the battle-cry that is rung out globally as we shelter-in-place at our home amidst an extended lockdown. Your home is your safe haven and as families are struggling to make the most of this stay-at-home situation, it is equally important to keep your abode hygienic, safe and protect it from the virus.  This has led to much confusion and dilemma about the best measures to safeguard residential spaces.

How should we disinfect milk bags and groceries? What about fruits and vegetables? Here’s a compilation that we at ESSPEE GROUP have prepared with research from reliable sources and authorities:

But first, let’s get the personal hygiene fundamentals in place.

Don’t touch your face.

It is evident by now that you must avoid touching your face as much as you can. Cover your mouth and nose with elbows if tissues are not handy in case you cough or sneeze unexpectedly. Discard the used tissues responsibly. Keep a physical distance of 1 meter or 3 feet from everyone if at all you step outside. Keep sanitizing your hands and face. But above all, wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

1. Cleaning and disinfecting the home

How do you clean and disinfect some of the high-touch areas of your home? Some of these surfaces include door-knobs, handles, tables, chairs, handrails, kitchen cabinets and countertop, bathroom surfaces, taps, light switches.

2. Steps for cleaning and disinfecting

If the surface is visibly dirty, then clean it with soap/detergent and water first. Next use any product that is a disinfectant containing alcohol(concentration should be 70 percent or higher) or bleach.

The best way to disinfect surfaces is not to wipe the disinfectant off as soon as  you have applied but leave it on for a few minutes for it to have an impact.

Cleaning your phone

Phone touch screens and laptop screens can be easily cleaned with disinfecting wipes. However, check the manufacturer instructions for all electronic devices first.

First, remove the protective case and clean the case thoroughly. Next, clean the front, back and edges of the phone. Make sure no liquid can seep through even if your phone is waterproof.

Discard your trash as frequently as you can.

3. Handing packaging and food

Wipe down all packaging material with alcoholic wipes. If you cannot do so and if the packaged food is non-perishable, then leave it outside in the sunlight for a couple of hours. Wash your hands with soap and water once you have cut open any packages.

Wash milk bags the moment they arrive with soap and water.  But also remember to wash your own hands once you are done. Keep a separate tray for couriers.

Washing produce is necessary at all times but especially now with COVID-19. Experts recommend NOT to wash produce with soap.

It is a good idea to wash your fresh fruits and vegetables with a baking soda solution to remove pesticide residue. Whether it has any impact on the virus, is still debated.

Note: Most sanitizers have Isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol. Use with caution as it is flammable and remember to wash your hands before you attempt to turn on the gas stove.

Last but not least

Stock up on cleaning liquid, dishwashing liquid, sanitizers and handwash in advance to reduce your trips to the market. Stay safe, stay protected and rely on authentic sources for your information.