As we adapt to our new daily routines in this partial lockdown, we’ll inevitably be exposed to all sorts of germs, be it at the work, grocery stores, and public transport system. 

This is why the prevention of infections at home is absolutely necessary to keep us and our loved ones safe! But if we’re not mindful, it can also generate a lot of unnecessary waste in the use of, for example, cleaning agents with harmful chemicals.

Here are some steps to take as you’re entering your home while limiting our impact on the environment:

  1. Take off your shoes and sanitise. Before entering your home, take off your shoes, spray alcohol on the soles, or leave them under the sun.
  2. Sterilise your stuff. You can’t really tell where the bottom and surfaces of your suitcase or bag have been, so make sure to spray it with alcohol or disinfectant. If it’s a leather purse, use a soft cloth wet with a solution of water and soap to wipe its exterior.
  3. Once you’ve entered your house, wash your hands immediately. Washing your hands for 20-30 seconds is important, but you don’t have to keep the water running the whole time! You can wet your hands, turn off the tap, and use soap to thoroughly clean your palms, the back of your hands, in between your fingers, back of your fingers, thumbs, fingertips, and wrist. Then, turn the tap back on when it’s time to rinse. This way you not only clean your hands but also save water while doing so. – Remember to wash the tap with soap too! 😉
  4. Disinfect your gadgets. Studies related to viruses like SARS have shown that germs can live on anything from a number of hours to several days, depending on the type of surface, and the temperature and humidity, which is why it’s important to clean your gadgets regularly.
    • Make sure electronics are turned off before wiping it using a microfibre cloth with a small amount of a solution of diluted soap and warm water, or alcohol.
    • Gadget buffs say most mobile phones nowadays are resilient, so you may also use alcohol for cleaning mobile screens (our hands touch these screens constantly when typing out messages or scrolling through Instagram, as do our faces!).
    • Another popular option among techies is the use of personal UV light sanitising devices for cleaning electronics and surfaces.
  5. Have other household members do the same! Of course, it’s important to also have our family members and visitors practice these precautions. It’s important for all of us to keep each other safe!

This public health emergency is teaching us to be more conscious of our day-to-day activities. Besides taking these steps whenever you enter your home, there are also other things you can practice on a day-to-day basis; such as avoiding crowded places, keeping your household clean (especially frequently touched surfaces), and boosting your immune system through a healthy diet. 

During this semi lockdown period, it’s best to stay indoors and cook your own meals. Most importantly, practice social distancing.

Social Distancing 101

We also encourage everyone not to panic, and stay informed by following these official channels: