Protect Your Family: The Best Advice to Avoid the Flu and other Viruses

With flu season upon us and the ongoing threat of coronavirus, keeping your home clean and disinfected is more important than ever. Of course, it's impossible to eliminate all germs, but taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of illness for you and your family.

Before we dive into the cleaning routine, it's essential to understand the difference between cleaning and disinfecting:

• Disinfecting: Removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces.
• Cleaning: Kills germs on surfaces.

Both steps are crucial for effective germ control.

Focus on High-Touch Areas

Pay particular attention to surfaces that are frequently touched:

• Door handles: Both interior and exterior.
• Light switches: All throughout your home.
• Kitchen and bathroom countertops: Where food is prepared and personal hygiene is maintained.
• Remote controls: A breeding ground for germs.
• Electronic devices: Phones, tablets, and keyboards.
• Toilet handles, seats, and sinks: Essential for bathroom hygiene.
• Faucets and handles: In both kitchen and bathrooms.

Your Cleaning and Disinfecting Routine

Regular Cleaning:

• Use soap and water to clean surfaces before disinfecting.
• For electronics, use a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.

Disinfecting:

• Choose an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against viruses.
• Follow the product instructions carefully.
• Allow the disinfectant to sit on the surface for the recommended time.
• Wear gloves while disinfecting.

Laundry:

• Wash items in hot water with detergent.
• Dry items completely.

Additional Tips

• Hand Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover Your Cough: Use a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid Sharing: Personal items like utensils, towels, and bedding should not be shared.

DIY Disinfectants: A Cautious Approach

While some people prefer homemade disinfectants, their effectiveness against viruses may be limited. It's generally safer and more reliable to use EPA-registered products.

There are many disinfectant options available. Look for products that specifically kill viruses. Some common choices include:

• Bleach solutions: Follow the dilution instructions carefully.
• Alcohol-based wipes: Effective against many germs.
• Hydrogen peroxide: Can be used on hard surfaces.
• Air Masters of Tampa Bay 24-hour, whole home air purification system: See more below

Important: Always follow the instructions on the product label.

Regular Cleaning Schedule

Aim to clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily, especially if someone in your household is sick. During flu season and periods of high virus transmission, you may want to increase the frequency of cleaning.

Disinfecting With Air Purification

Air Masters of Tampa Bay also offers an extra layer of virus and flu-fighting protection with its amazing air purifier! This whole-home system kills 99.9% of viruses, germs, toxins, allergens, bacteria and molds in the air and on surfaces. It also gets rid of any odors.

This purifier, as long as the fan is consistently running, is so powerful, it actually kills germs before they land on surfaces.

Our customers are thrilled with our product and say it has changed their lives.

Call us today at (813) 234-2419 and find out more about how our amazing whole-home air purifiers can help you and your family breathe easier and healthier!