Protection from Virus: 6 Things Everyone Forgets to Disinfect

Specialists at US disease control and prevention centers warn that the coronavirus can survive on surfaces made of metal and plastic in dark rooms for up to 17 days. They came to this conclusion after observing surfaces on the Diamond Princess cruise ship.

At the same time, UV radiation, organic solvents, and certain cleaning agents help fight the virus. According to researchers from The Journal of Hospital Infection, disinfectants with more than 60% ethanol, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, or 0.1% sodium hypochlorite can effectively destroy coronaviruses in less than a minute.

We've already written about how to properly disinfect your phone and groceries. Here are a few more items you shouldn't forget about.

First of all, define a zone in your apartment where you will lay out purchases and packages. For example, take everything out onto a table or nightstand in the hallway or entryway, not the kitchen. After receiving orders, thoroughly wipe all items delivered by couriers with antiseptic or alcohol swabs, and wash your hands thoroughly.

• Outerwear and footwear should also be left in this zone. To treat items, use antiseptic or 70% alcohol solution. Don't forget to wear a mask and gloves before the procedure. Footwear can also be washed with soap solution. If you want to wash clothes worn when coming from outside, choose a machine wash cycle with water temperature no less than 50 degrees Celsius and an additional rinse.
• Bags and backpacks made of textile can be easily cleaned in a washing machine or during hand washing. If the material is delicate, use a damp cloth, disinfectant, and sticky roller. Pay special attention to zippers and buttons.

Doctors recommend avoiding cash payments. When ordering online, choose payment directly on the website if possible, otherwise use a bank card or phone payment. After that, be sure to wipe the card with a disinfectant swab and clean the magnetic strip of the credit card using a regular school eraser.

How long ago did you disinfect the keys to your apartment or car? Don't be lazy and treat them every time after use. By the way, when getting into a car, don't forget to treat door handles and steering wheel as well.

On metal, the coronavirus can live up to 48 hours. Many accessories (such as rings) are in close contact with the skin. To protect yourself, remove them and thoroughly clean both the accessories and your hands.

And, of course, the main item that many people forget about — a tube of disinfectant. Dirt and bacteria also accumulate on it, especially since we take the antiseptic out precisely when the surrounding area is dirty. Wipe the packaging with disinfectant wipes or thoroughly rinse it with soap and water.