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How to Keep Your Home Clean During a Pandemic

With the number of COVID-19 cases in Canada now in the hundreds, health organizations are imploring Canadians to self-isolate in order to flatten the curve. Studies are showing that the virus can survive on hard surfaces for up to three days, so if you’re bringing anything inside your home, like groceries, it’s essential to make sure to keep them clean. 



We’d also like to reinforce, that while these tips are a solid foundation for cleaning your home, people should refer to information from the Public Health Agency of Canada for specific official COVID-19 preparedness.


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends cleaning a surface (reducing the number of germs) and then disinfecting it (killing the remaining germs). The CDC also advises people to use disposable gloves during the process. To kill viruses, it’s best to use products specifically endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency.


There’s a fair chance you already have these in your cupboard, as familiar brands like Lysol and Clorox are on the list. You can also dilute bleach or use alcohol solutions (with 70% alcohol or more). For soft surfaces like carpets or rugs, follow typical instructions for cleaning and wash what you can in warm water.




The 10 most important things to disinfect regularly


  • Countertops, desks, tables

  • Doorknobs

  • Light switches

  • Handles — cupboards, drawers, appliances

  • Toilets

  • Sinks

  • Bathtub, shower

  • Remote controls

  • Towels, sheets, clothing

  • Phones, tablets, keyboards, etc. 


Deep clean to pass the time


While the nation is encouraging social distancing,it’s easy to go stir crazy. A great way to feel productive and pass the time is by deep cleaning your home. If you spend part of your day on a bigger cleaning project, you’ll also feel better about the evening hours you spend binge-watching a TV show. Now’s the time to do the tasks you normally wouldn’t bother with, or perhaps only do once a year. 


In the kitchen, you can pull everything out of your fridge or freezer and clean the appliance. This is also a great tim