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Disinfection Methods

If you think only hard surfaces and food preparation areas need disinfecting, think again. Germs that can cause illness exist everywhere from linens and clothing to carpets and upholstery. Three variables combine in an effective disinfecting method: heat, the intensity of the disinfecting agent and the exposure time between the contaminated surface and the cleaner.

  1. Steam Clean

    • Disinfect your furniture and carpets by using a steam cleaner and a disinfecting carpet shampoo. Allow the steam and shampoo to soak and lather. The longer your carpet fibers soak in hot water the more complete the disinfecting process. Use the hottest water possible and the recommended amount of a disinfecting carpet shampoo.

    Homemade Bleach Spray

    • Bleach spray is the easiest and cheapest way to disinfect toys, bathroom surfaces and kitchen floors. Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin from bleach. Start by wiping down the surface with hot, soapy water to remove surface dirt and germs. Next, combine one tablespoon of bleach with four cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the contaminated surface liberally and allow the solution to set for at least 3 minutes. Wipe the surface dry using a clean paper towel.

    Washer and Dryer

    • Disinfect your linens, clothing and stuffed animals with a hot washing and drying. Shake your laundry over the toilet or trash, not in your bedroom where you could spread bacteria. Wash your laundry as you would normally, but use the hottest setting possible for your wash and dry cycle. Disinfect delicate items with a 20 minute high-heat tumble in the dryer and remove. The heat of your dryer combined with the laundry detergent will disinfect most washable items.

    Disinfecting Wipes

    • Disinfecting wipes kill germs on hard surfaces that aren't safe for bleach cleaner, such as your computer keyboard and telephone. Remove surface dirt first with a damp paper towel for direct access between the germs and disinfecting wipes. Keep the surface wet for at least three minutes by using at least two or more disinfecting wipes. Surfaces that dry in less than three minutes were not sufficiently exposed to the disinfecting agent and remain contaminated.

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