If you can't get ahold of sanitizing wipes, you likely have what you need to stay safe right in your laundry room. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that we clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces—door knobs, light switches, sinks and faucets, handles—on a daily basis to avoid contact with viruses.
Homemade Bleach Disinfectant Solution
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved regular household bleach among the products that are effective against many viruses, including COVID-19. Simply mix bleach and water for an easy disinfectant for non-porous surfaces (check manufacturer’s instruction where applicable). Wash your hands and put on gloves for protection. Then properly dilute the bleach according to the CDC’s ratio:
- For big jobs: 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water
Try mixing the solution right in a large, portable bucket so you can move from room to room with ease.
- For small jobs: 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
A spouted measuring cup lets you smoothly transfer the solution to a spray bottle, or you can measure right in the bottle of a spray mop.
Start fresh
Disinfectants won’t be effective on dirty surfaces, so take this simple step to protect your family after your house is clean. Apply the solution to bleach-safe areas, and make sure the surface stays wet for 5 minutes. Then rub well with a cloth or paper towel. You may need to go over surfaces more than once. If you’re not sure if a surface is safe for bleach, test a small, hidden area before tackling the job. Also, make sure all rooms are properly ventilated, and never mix bleach with household cleaners.
The last step is also the first step: Wash your hands. (You should even wash your gloved hands if you plan to reuse the gloves.) And then enjoy that spick-and-span feeling.
For cleaning everything from cookware to hardwood floors, try these additional DIY cleaning solutions.