The clothes are in direct contact with viruses, bacteria, fungi and germs that we will have to disinfect if we do not want to have complications. There are specific products for this, eliminating all harmful microorganisms when washing our clothes.
Although there is currently no specific information on whether viruses remain on clothes longer than on any other surface, it is important to bear in mind that they can remain between 2 and 3 days, as in any other place.
Viruses, such as COVID-19, are easily removed with bleach and other cleaning products. For this reason, it is advisable to use long programs and hot water in the washes and to wash separately the clothes of people who present some flu complication or infectious processes.
However, not everyone can afford to have their clothes washed through a laundry service. These are five basic and easy-to-apply tips on how to wash and disinfect clothes at home, as much as possible.
Advertising
1. Enough water
Use enough water in each wash and avoid washing with very large loads, since it is important that the clothes have room to shake properly.
2. More detergent
Use more detergent than usual in each wash, using granular or heavy-duty liquid detergent, as it better retains suspended dirt and therefore better removes any residue.
3. Bleach in the wash
In the event that the clothes are contaminated with sewage, chemical products or other toxic materials, use a special disinfectant product in the wash, such as bleach (a cup in the wash cycle is enough). Chlorine is one of the most popular forms of this disinfectant.
4. High temperatures
If there is someone sick at home, in addition to bleach, it is important to wash clothes at high temperatures (or boil them at least 60ºC), so that the virus cannot survive.
5. Dryer
Drying on high heat will also help disinfect clothes, as long as they are clean after washing. Another option, if you do not have this appliance, is to press with a hot iron, being especially useful for some cotton garments and bedding.
baby's clothes
Because children tend to have sensitive skin (and you don't know who has tampered with their clothes and what before you got them), it's generally a good idea to wash all of your child's clothes before use. . Put small items, like socks, in a mesh bag for washing and drying, and remember to fasten Velcro straps (like those on bibs), to prevent them from snagging on other clothes.
Wash children's clothes separately, using detergents that leave less residue; invest in a fragrance-free one if your baby develops any signs of skin irritation. Remove fluid and food stains as soon as possible with a damp cloth or by soaking in water and detergent.
What should not be washed at home
The washing and disinfection of the gowns and uniforms of health professionals must be a priority element. Experts advise against carrying out this process at home, next to everyday clothes. A wash at a minimum of 70ºC is recommended, although, for example, the Royal College of Nursing in the United Kingdom establishes that it should be cleaned at 60ºC. These standards are required and must be met in hospital laundry services, whether owned or outsourced.
