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How to Disinfect a Home

If you’re after thorough home disinfecting, simply wiping down the kitchen table and calling it a day won’t do. Here’s how to clean your home the right way – and disinfect while doing so.

What Are Common Household Germs?

In busy households (especially those with young families), germs can be spread easily – and found in high volume. Four of the most common types of germs are bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa.

How to Disinfect a Room

Here are some simple disinfecting steps you can take to ensure a cleaner, less bacteria-filled room:

  • When using chemical cleaners like bleach, wear gloves and open windows.
  • Fill a spray bottle, or douse a washable cloth, with disinfectant (such as a household bleach-water solution, or a store-bought solution).
  • Target high-traffic areas. Which rooms do you and your family spend the most time in? Which pieces of furniture do you engage with on a regular basis? Once you have a general idea of the places you need to pay the most attention to, start with hard surfaces. Using a cloth or spray bottle, cover the surface with a disinfecting solution; let sit for about a minute, and then wipe with a clean, dry cloth. (When dealing with soft surfaces like sofas, it’s best to spot treat; refer here for in-depth steps on cleaning/disinfecting soft furniture.)

Surface Disinfecting Checklist

These surfaces and objects common to households are often dirtier (read: grosser than you can ever wish to imagine) than most of the things you come across in public places.

 

Electronics

Appliances

Furniture

Other

Objects /
Surfaces to Disinfect

  • Smartphones
  • Remote controls
  • Laptops
  • Tablets
  • Printers
  • Earbuds
  • Knife block
  • Refrigerator drawers
  • Microwave
  • Stove knobs
  • Cutting boards
  • Coffee makers
  • Chair armrests
  • Rugs
  • Tabletops
  • Sofas
  • Drawer interiors
  • Mattress
  • Pet bowl
  • Toothbrush holder
  • Dish sponge

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.