There is still much to learn about the novel virus known as coronavirus or (COVID-19). Based on the current knowledge about the coronavirus and similar viruses SARS and MERS, they spread between people most frequently among close contacts (Within approx. 6 feet). This type of transmission happens via respiratory droplets. However, the transmission of the coronavirus to people coming from surfaces contaminated with the virus has not been officially documented ( However, some experiments have shown the virus can survive on surfaces such as plastic and stainless steel for up to three days). Transmission of coronavirus occurs much more commonly through respiratory droplets than through contaminated surfaces. Although, more research is needed to fully understand how long the virus can survive in the air under average conditions. However, the research does strongly suggest that frequent and thorough sanitizing of hard surfaces like phones, handles and doorknobs (Anything frequently touched) will go a long way in preventing the spread of the virus.  Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is the best measure for the prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in households and workplaces.

This short guide will provide recommendations on the cleaning and disinfection of households aimed at limiting the survival of the virus. (These are the best methods currently known, however, recommendations could change as new information is discovered).

• Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

• Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. To effectively disinfect surfaces, the proper cleaning chemicals and cleaning techniques must be used. Here at Evergreen Cleaning Co., we are staying up to date with the latest information in order to ensure we can provide the most thorough cleaning/disinfection possible. We have the proper cleaning chemicals, and all of our cleaning technicians have been fully trained to ensure we keep your home or business free of Covid-19. We have had some concerned that our cleaning teams could potentially bring the virus into their home or office. However, that certainly is not the case. As the microfiber cloths, mop heads, the chemicals that we use kill 99.9 % of all viruses and bacteria. There's no cross-contamination. Everything that we take into a house is clean. We don't take anything from one house to the other. Our team members are very conscious of safety and frequently wash their hands, use hand sanitizer, also no dirty towels/cloths are ever used, nothing but clean supplies and equipment are brought in to homes. So there’s a very minimal chance of any cross-contamination taking place. Our cleaning services will leave your home, office, restaurant, or any other business much cleaner with a lower chance of any surfaces possibly being contaminated with the virus. If you were planning on getting a Spring Cleaning done, especially right now with this coronavirus spreading, there is no better time than now! Take advantage of our upcoming Spring Cleaning Specials, and keep your home or business safe and sparkling clean.

If you prefer to tackle your house cleaning yourself, here are some tips and recommendations to achieve the best results.

Make sure to practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces (Such as - tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.) with the proper household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface type,  and as always follow label instructions. Labels have instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product being used including any precautions you should take when using the product, such as wearing gloves or making sure you have good ventilation during the use of the product. Remember to clean and then disinfect! When using a disinfectant, the product must be applied and remain (Dwell Time) on the surface for a period of time to ensure it effectively kills bacteria and germs.

 General Recommendations for Cleaning and Disinfection of Households with People Isolated in Home Care (Suspected/Confirmed to have COVID-19)

• In the bedroom/bathroom dedicated for an ill person: reduce cleaning frequency to as-needed to avoid contact with the ill person as much as possible.

  • A sick person should stay in a specific room and away from other people in their home as often as possible.

  • If a separate bathroom is not available, the bathroom should be cleaned and disinfected after each use by a person infected with the virus.

• Household members should follow the CDC’s home care guidance when interacting with anyone with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 and their isolation rooms/bathrooms. Following these guidelines will drastically decrease the chances of the caretaker of the ill person to also catch the virus.

How to properly clean and disinfect -

Surfaces

• Wear disposable vinyl or nitrile gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Gloves should be discarded after each cleaning. If reusable gloves are used, make sure they are dedicated for the cleaning and disinfection of surfaces for COVID-19 and NOT be used for other purposes. Make sure to always wash hands after removing gloves.

• If needed, clean surfaces prior to disinfection.

• For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective. (We do not recommend the use of bleach as it is a toxic chemical that can be harmful to your health). There are plenty of safer alternatives that would disinfect surfaces just as effectively.

  • Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. NEVER mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser as it can form chlorine gas or other harmful reactions. Bleach will be effective at disinfecting surfaces contaminated with coronaviruses when properly diluted.

    • Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:

      • 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or

      • 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water

• For soft or porous surfaces such as carpets, rugs, and drapes, remove visible dirt/dust if present and clean with the appropriate product for use on these types of surfaces. After cleaning:

  • Wash items in the laundry machine or dry cleaner, whichever is suggested in the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the hottest water setting for the items and make sure items are thoroughly dry.

 Clothing, towels, linens and other items that go in the laundry

• Always wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry from an ill person and then discard after each use (Do NOT Reuse). Again, if using reusable gloves, those gloves should be dedicated for cleaning and disinfection of surfaces for COVID-19 only and should not be used for any other household purposes. Always wash hands immediately after gloves are removed.

  • If no gloves are used when handling dirty laundry, make sure to wash hands immediately afterward and avoid touching anything prior to doing so.

  • Do not shake dirty laundry. This should minimize the possibility of spreading the virus in the air. ( It is currently unknown how long the virus can survive while being airborne)

  • Wash clothing/linens in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, use the hottest water setting for the items and dry items thoroughly. Dirty laundry from an ill person does not have to be washed separately from other laundry, however, you may choose to do so anyway as an extra precaution.

  • Clean and disinfect clothes hampers as well following the guidance above for “Soft” surfaces. We suggest using some type of liner for the hamper, either disposable or one that can be washed.

Hand hygiene and other preventive measures -

• All members of the household should clean hands often as possible, including immediately after removing gloves and always after contact with a person who is ill. Correctly clean hands by washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains a minimum of 60% alcohol can be used as a substitute. However, if hands are visibly dirty, always wash hands with soap and water.

• Everyone should follow preventive actions while at work and home including recommended hand washing/sanitizing as well as avoiding touching eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Other important times to clean hands include:

    • After blowing nose, coughing, or sneezing

    • After using the bathroom

    • Before eating or cooking food

    • After contact with any animals or pets

    • Before and after providing care for another who needs assistance such as a child or elderly person.

Other considerations

• The person who is ill should eat in their room if possible. Non-disposable food service items used should be handled with gloves and washed with hot water or in a dishwasher. Remember to always wash hands after handling used food items.

• Dedicate a separate trash can for the ill person. Always use gloves when removing garbage bags, handling, and disposing of trash. Clean hands after handling or disposing of trash.

• Speak with your local health department about trash disposal guidance if available.

Remember to follow these guidelines and safety tips which will drastically reduce the chances of becoming ill. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to provide a deep cleaning that includes disinfecting surfaces, especially things touched often. To reduce your risks even further, avoid going out into large crowds, flying, or being within 6 feet of other people whenever possible.

 In closing, most importantly do not panic! We know this can be a scary time, but by following these tips and guidelines, along with a frequent home/office cleaning routine, you have a minimal chance of becoming ill from this virus. As always, Evergreen Cleaning Company is here to help with all of your cleaning needs. If anyone in the Huntington Beach area is in great need of cleaning services or essential resources such as cleaning products, soap/sanitizer, or toilet paper please feel free to reach out to us anytime, as we are always trying to give back to our wonderful community! The health and safety of our team members, clients, and community have, and always will be our top priority. Evergreen Cleaning Co. will continue to follow our strict cleaning procedures and systems that have been highly effective for many years while continuing to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well being of all of our team members and clients that we provide our services too.

My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone impacted by the spread of COVID-19. Please stay safe, and practice excellent hygiene along with the guidelines provided in this article as we all work together getting through these difficult times.

Please comment below, or feel free to email us at info@evergreencleaningco.com.

 Sincerely,

Owner/Founder

Jon

Evergreen Cleaning Company