There’s been a lot of valuable information in the past six months regarding the pandemic, both in traditional and social media, online and offline. Information is vital to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19. However, there are some misinterpreted data or misguided tips regarding disinfection. We want you to stay safe and don’t hurt yourself while you protect your health. That’s why we debunk the following COVID-19 disinfection myths. Keep reading!
Myth #1: Soap and water don’t kill the virus on surfaces
Although commercial disinfectants are popular and you can have them in a convenient presentation (like sprays bottles), basic soap and water are still an effective option to eliminate pathogens from your surfaces. Use a mix of water and dish soap on your plastic or metallic surfaces, for example, scrub them gently to form foam and rinse with plain water. This method is proven to dislodge germs and viruses and slide them off. But, if you want to be extra careful, use a disinfectant after.
Myth #2: Disinfectants work instantly
Don’t fall for the multiples commercials showing those magic wipes disinfecting surfaces just with one single pass. If you bought commercial disinfectants, read the label that says “to disinfect” and follow the instructions. Generally, disinfectants need at least one minute over the surface to take effect. Our recommendation is to saturate your surface, leave it for a while, and clean it with a clean cloth.
Myth #3: Commercial disinfectants are best against COVID-19
Although Clorox and Lysol are everywhere and selling by dozens, you don’t actually need to use a branded disinfectant. They are more convenient, but according to the Center For Disease Control (CDC), bleach and rubbing alcohol are the two common household products that are the most effective against COVID-19. Of course, you have to make your own solution because bleach is a potent chemical, and alcohol can be diluted to work properly on delicate surfaces. A diluted bleach solution usually consists of one-third cup of bleach in one gallon of water. Alcohol kills pathogens commonly at 60% or 70% concentration.
Myth #4: There’s no need to clean before disinfecting
Cleaning and disinfecting aren’t the same thing. According to the CDC, cleaning consists of removing dust, dirt, and small debris from surfaces and objects. Disinfecting refers to the action of using chemicals to kill germs and other pathogens like viruses. If you want to disinfect properly, you have to clean the area first, because removing dirt and dust has a positive action when you use the chemical.
Myth #5: Disinfectants work on the human body
Don’t, under any circumstance and for your safety, use disinfectants over your skin; and don’t ingest them either. Chemicals like bleach are especially harmful to the human body, and just a few drops can cause your skin damage. If you want to disinfect your body, there’s no better method than taking a shower and washing your dirty clothes.
What do you think? We hope these debunked myths about coronavirus give you the peace of mind you need. If you want a professional sanitize and disinfect chores, call Eloise’s Cleaning Services. Book your service online.
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