Disinfection 101: What Are Your Go-To Protocols for a Safer Space?

What’s your go-to disinfection routine? Or, what’s that one habit you follow to keep your home germ-free? 

You don’t have any?

Keeping your home clean and germ-free isn’t just about tidiness, it’s about protecting yourself and your loved ones from illness and infections. 

Well, check out simple yet effective ways to keep your space safer, whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or someone looking to improve their home’s hygiene.

Why Is Regular Disinfection Essential?

Did you know that for those with limited mobility or health conditions, a small infection can quickly turn into something serious?

Yes, it can.

But, a clean home can reduce the risk of illnesses, minimizes hospital visits, and provides comfort knowing that things are under control. 

The good news? 

You  just need to be consistent. Keeping your home disinfected doesn’t have to be complicated.

What Are The  Disinfection Routines I Must Have?

Here are disinfection routines that can help keep your environment clean and hygienic, reducing the risk of illness and infection.

• Clean First, Then Disinfect

Cleaning and disinfecting are not the same. 

Cleaning removes dirt and grime, but it doesn’t necessarily kill germs. While disinfecting eliminates bacteria and viruses on surfaces. 

In this case, It’s crucial to clean surfaces first before disinfecting them because dirt can block disinfectants from working effectively.

• Focus on High-Touch Areas

Well, germs spread quickly on surfaces we often touch, such as doorknobs, light switches, TV remotes, phones, bathroom surfaces, and mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs. 

These areas should be disinfected several times a day, especially in households with seniors or individuals recovering from surgery.

• Select the Right Disinfectant

In most cases, not all cleaning products are effective for killing germs.

But It’s best to use hospital-grade disinfectants or DIY solutions that work. A simple bleach solution can also be highly effective. 

Alcohol-based disinfectants with at least 70% alcohol or hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners are also great options. 

Do check the labels to ensure the product is safe for the surfaces you are cleaning.

• Don’t Forget Soft Surfaces

Viruses and bacteria don’t live on hard surfaces alone, they also linger on soft materials too. 

Items like sofas, chairs, bed linens, pillows, and car seats should be regularly cleaned. 

Washing fabrics in hot water and using a fabric-safe disinfectant spray can help prevent the spread of germs.

• Always Wash Your Hands

Frequently wash your hands because they are the biggest carriers of germs.

Make it a habit to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after touching shared surfaces. 

Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available. 

Also, avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, to prevent infections from spreading.

• Keep the Air Clean

Germs can also be in the air…

One thing that you should know is keeping indoor air fresh is crucial for a healthier home. 

Opening windows daily allows fresh air to circulate and reduces indoor air pollution. 

Regularly changing HVAC filters ensures cleaner air throughout your home and using air purifiers with HEPA filters can help trap bacteria and viruses.

How We Ensure a Germ-Free Environment

We prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients by following strict infection control protocols. 

Our caregivers disinfect high-touch areas daily, practice proper hand hygiene before and after every visit, and use medical-grade disinfectants to clean surfaces. 

We also equip our team with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves, to add an extra layer of protection.

We acknowledged that seniors and post-operative patients have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. 

A clean environment plays a crucial role in keeping them safe and healthy. 

Conclusion 

A clean home is a healthy home. Taking small steps today can make a big difference in protecting yourself and your loved ones.

If you or a loved one needs compassionate, healthy, reliable in-home care, Elixonn Healthcare UK is here to help. 

Contact us today to learn more about our services.