BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM

Recovering from the flu? Congrats on getting through it! But before you celebrate with a return to normal life, there’s one more task to tackle: cleaning your home to banish lingering germs. The flu virus can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, and without proper cleaning and disinfecting, it can still spread to others in your household.

Let’s walk through how to sanitize your space, one surface at a time, so you can truly put the flu behind you.

Cleaning vs. disinfecting: know the difference

Before diving into your post-flu cleaning spree, it’s helpful to know the distinction between cleaning and disinfecting:

• Cleaning: removes dirt, germs, and dust using soap and water but doesn’t kill germs.
• Disinfecting: targets and kills germs on surfaces using commercial disinfectants like sprays, wipes, or bleaches.

For best results, clean surfaces first, then disinfect them to ensure those pesky germs are gone for good.

Start with high-traffic surfaces

High-traffic surfaces are hot spots for germs. These include items and areas people touch constantly, such as:

• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Drawer handles
• Stair railings

Don’t forget your car! Disinfect frequently touched areas like the steering wheel, door handles, and seat belts. Disinfecting wipes are a lifesaver here—just follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wash your hands after use.

Tackle the kitchen

Kitchens are notorious for germ build-up, especially after the flu. Start by collecting used dishes, utensils, and glasses, and wash them in hot, soapy water or run them through the dishwasher. Then focus on disinfecting these areas:

• Refrigerator door handles
• Cabinet and drawer pulls
• Countertops
• Sink faucets and handles
• Small appliances (e.g., coffee makers, microwaves)
• Garbage cans

Make sure to wipe down everything thoroughly, especially spots you may touch while cooking or preparing meals.

Deep clean the bathroom

The bathroom is a must-clean area after an illness. Disinfect hard surfaces like:

• Sinks and faucets
• Countertops
• Toilets (including the seat, handle, and base)
• Tubs and showers
• Light switches and doorknobs

Don’t forget overlooked spots like toothbrush holders and soap dispensers. You might also consider replacing toothbrushes to ensure no germs linger.

Refresh laundry and soft surfaces

Flu viruses can survive on fabrics, so make laundry a priority. Gather clothing, bedding, and towels, and wash them with detergent on the hottest water setting allowed by the care label. Be sure to:

• Dry items thoroughly on a high heat setting to kill germs.
• Disinfect laundry baskets and hampers with warm, soapy water or disinfectant wipes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reassures us that it’s safe to mix laundry from sick and healthy household members as long as proper washing practices are followed.

Don’t skip the bedroom

Bedrooms need attention too, especially if someone spent their recovery there. Focus on:

• Washing all bedding and pillowcases.
• Disinfecting bedside tables, bed frames, light switches, and drawer handles.
• Vacuuming carpets and sweeping or mopping hard floors.

If kids were sick, be sure to clean and disinfect their toys. Machine-wash stuffed animals in pillowcases and clean hard toys with soap and water before disinfecting.

Electronics: the germiest surfaces of all

Your phone, remote controls, and keyboards are magnets for germs. A 2020 study review found that 68 percent of mobile phones worldwide carry harmful microorganisms. To disinfect electronics:

• Use a lint-free cloth dampened with warm, soapy water or disinfecting wipes.
• Avoid excessive moisture and check the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent damage.
• Consider investing in wipeable covers to make cleaning easier in the future.

Let fresh air in

Crack open a window! Ventilating your home reduces airborne germs and keeps the air feeling fresh. It’s also a great idea to air out your space while using disinfectants, which can have strong odors.

Recovery first, cleaning second

If you’re still recovering from the flu, don’t overexert yourself. Rest and heal before tackling a deep clean. If needed, enlist the help of family, friends, or even a professional cleaning service.

Final tips for a flu-free home

The flu is contagious, but a thorough cleaning can keep it from spreading further. Start with high-touch surfaces and work your way through rooms systematically. Wear gloves and a mask while disinfecting, and always follow the instructions on commercial cleaning products.

With a little effort, your home will be sparkling clean and germ-free—leaving you to focus on staying healthy.