As the COVID pandemic strikes our city again, it’s time to raise our alertness and keep on fighting. Let’s revise some of the vital precaution measures in order to prevent infection and going to the Penny’s Bay quarantine centre!
Basic domestic cleaning
Must-have-item：Bleach
Sodium hypochlorite is the active ingredient in common bleach and is effective against most bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is one of the most commonly used domestic disinfectants. For areas that are frequently contacted, such as door handles and buttons, 1:99 diluted bleach are recommended; while areas with vomit or excretion should be sanitized with 1:49 diluted bleach.
Shoes
Leave shoes outdoor whenever possible, and disinfect both the surface and the sole. Placing a carpet or towel soaked with 1:99 diluted bleach in front of the door so as to sanitize the soles by stepping onto it. Alternatively, you may prepare diluted bleaching water beforehand to spray your shoes. Leave them in an area with well air ventilation afterwards.
Floor
Swipe the floor after sanitizing with 1:99 diluted bleach.
Non-metallic surface
Couches made of different materials require specific cleaning agents. It is therefore important to read the instruction to avoid damaging the surface. Other non-metallic surfaces can be sterilized with 1:99 diluted bleach; and toys with hot steam.
Metallic surface
Thoroughly swipe the surfaces with 70% alcohol is sufficient for sanitization.
Easily overlooked items
Door handles and switches/buttons are touched frequently and thus easily contaminated. Remember to disinfect them frequently as well.
Drainage
Pour at least half a liter of diluted bleach into the U-shaped drain outlet weekly in order to prevent spreading of viruses vertically through pipes.
Bedding
Change and wash your bed sheet, pillow case and towel from time to time.
Simple steps to sanitize winter clothing
Most of us used to jump onto the couch once we are back home despite our dirty outfit. Yet, we now tend to do so after taking a shower and changing into clean pajamas.
Our clothing is contaminated by considerable high amount of invisible germs and bacteria once we go to the public area such as office, restaurant and public transport. It’s especially vital to wash your clothing daily with 60°C in order to stay away from diseases.
For clothing that is not washed daily, simple sanitizing procedures should be taken after wearing. Spraying alcohol is the simplest and quickest way to do so. For clothing that cannot be sprayed with alcohol, wet towel can be used to remove dust on the surface. In both cases, the clothing should be hanged outside or in an area with good air ventilation.
Suggested outfit
Jackets made with water prove materials such as goose down, leather and PVC are highly recommended during the pandemic. These surfaces decrease the absorption of droplet or moisture when contacted. On the other hand, wool and cardigan might not be suitable for wearing during the pandemic.
In addition, avoid wearing pull-over tops as they easily come into contact with our eyes, nose and mouth when putting on. Here are more basic tips for sanitizing winter clothing. Remember to do so every time!
Ordinary jackets
Spraying alcohol or diluted bleach is the easiest way to sanitize them. You may also further sterilize them by putting them under the Sun, or steam them with an iron. Leave them in an area with well air ventilation overnight.
Leather jackets
Alcohol is restricted for sterilizing leather as it may dissolve the surface to cause decolorization. Diluted soap water or wet tissue is recommended.
No one really knows when the pandemic will cease. All we know is, we have to do our very best to maintain hygiene and stay healthy all the time!
