Spring cleaning, to the max!
COVID-19 has us staying at home and is bringing a whole new meaning to spring cleaning! If you’re frantically cleaning everyone and everything in your house or cleaning because it’s the only thing left that hasn’t been canceled, make sure to keep these safety tips in mind.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Use EPA-approved cleaners, disinfecting wipes, or bleach solutions to clean hard surfaces. Wash sheets, towels, and linens after use with the warmest possible setting.
- Follow common respiratory hygiene – cover your mouth with the crook of your elbow when coughing and sneezing. Dispose of tissues in a closed wastebasket.
Regardless of the current circumstances, spring cleaning is a common occurrence and can seem like a mundane task. However, becoming complacent with this seasonal chore puts you at higher risk for accidents and injuries. Here are some reminders to help keep you safe while tackling your to-do list.
Clean the clutter – Create piles for things you want to “dump”, “donate”, or “keep”. Remember chargers, cables, and cords can be hazardous when burned so look for a recycling center near you. While cleaning often means making a bigger mess, try keeping the clutter off the floor as much as possible to avoid tripping and falling. Make sure not to overexert yourself, take time to rest and don’t be afraid to ask for help when moving heavy objects.
Disinfect your home – Start with hard surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and faucets. Commonly touched areas like these need thorough cleaning to avoid spreading germs, but don’t forget toys, games, and electronics too. Use a hydrogen peroxide or bleach solution. When handling disinfectants, use gloves and open a window or vent for proper air flow. Never mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar as it creates a dangerous chlorine gas that is deadly at high enough levels.
Consider the kids – Be careful not to leave dangerous materials within reach of children or pets. Use a caddy carrier to help avoid leaving any open bottles behind.
Prepare for pests – Sealing and staining the boards on your deck or porch can prevent pests from eating and eroding the wood. Pests also like standing water to lay their eggs. Re-grading your lawn, breaking up the ground with a shovel, and adding organic matter to the soil are all ways you can minimized standing water and pests.