KEY POINTS
- Cleanliness should be a paramount concern for every Australian household this cold season to avoid the spread of virus.
- Frequently touched items pose the highest risk of contamination. These items may include remote controls, light switches, doorknobs, steering wheels, toilets and others.
- Homeowners are encouraged to perform a thorough cleaning of their homes at least once a week to ensure optimal cleanliness and hygiene.
Em Rama, an expert from Top job Cleaning Services, emphasises that cleanliness should be a paramount concern for every Australian household.
"To avoid illness, it's imperative to maintain cleanliness not only within ourselves but especially within our homes, which serve as our comfort zones. A dirty house increases the likelihood of our loved ones falling ill."
Clean Commonly Touched Surfaces
Rama says that frequently touched items pose the highest risk of contamination. These items may include remote controls, light switches, doorknobs, steering wheels, toilets, kitchen surfaces, microwaves, fridge doors, kitchen cupboards, and lounge sofas.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Rama highlights the importance of both cleaning and disinfecting various areas of the house.
"Cleaning involves physically removing organic matter such as germs and dirt from surfaces, while disinfecting entails using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces."
For effective cleaning, Rama advises wiping away any crumbs, dust, or dirt. She recommends spraying disinfectant to thoroughly cover the area and allowing it to sit for a while. Subsequently, wiping with a disposable paper towel that can be immediately disposed of or a cotton cloth that can be machine washed after each use is essential.
In the case of toilets, Rama stresses the importance of disinfecting every surface that is touched, including doorknobs, light switches, toilet seats, handles, covers, and sinks. She advises against using the same paper towel or cloth for sinks and toilets to prevent cross-contamination.
Similarly, all frequently touched surfaces in the kitchen should be disinfected, including doorknobs, light switches, sinks, faucets, refrigerator handles, cabinet hardware, countertops, tables, and chairs. Additionally, all dishes and utensils should be washed at high heat in the dishwasher.
Regular Thorough Cleaning
Homeowners are encouraged to perform a thorough cleaning of their homes at least once a week to ensure optimal cleanliness and hygiene.
Prevention is Key
Preventing the contamination of household surfaces is as crucial as cleaning them. Basic preventive measures such as regular hand washing and sanitising, wearing face masks when necessary, and covering the mouth when sneezing or coughing can significantly mitigate the spread of viruses.
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST
Prioritise cleanliness this cold season to combat virus spread
SBS Filipino
09/05/202408:34
Healthy Pinoy is SBS Filipino's weekly segment on health. The content provided is for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your GP or doctor for support.
