Cleaning and disinfecting your home is a daily routine task for most households. But when someone is sick, it takes a few extra precautions to ensure infection is not spread.  

Cleaning surfaces using soap and water should be followed disinfectant. Cleaning with soap and water reduces number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface, while disinfecting kills germs on surfaces. Routine cleaning should be practiced for frequently touched surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.  

For disinfection, it is recommend to keep the surface wet for a period of time, and to use precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during the use of the product. Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface. 

An important precaution is to check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date .Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.

For soft surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes, clean the surface using soap and water. Launder items (if possible) according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.

Electronics, such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, and remote controls need to have a wipeable cover to use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. Dry surface thoroughly.

When someone is sick, there are some additional steps to follow. Keep a separate bedroom and bathroom for the sick person if possible, and keep them separated, as much as possible, from other people at home.

If the bathroom is shared, it should be cleaned and disinfected by the sick person after each use. If this is not possible, the caregiver should wait as long as possible before cleaning and disinfecting.

The sick person should eat in their room if possible. Wash dishes and utensils using disposable gloves and hot water. A dedicated, lined trash can for the sick person if possible. Use disposable gloves when removing garbage bags, and handling and disposing of trash, and wash hands afterwards.