How to Clean After Cold

When we have a cold, we spread the pathogens in our environment by coughing, sneezing, speaking and touching. You should clean these things thoroughly so that you do not infect yourself or others again after surviving a cold.

The cold or flu is over, but the pathogens are still with us. They stick to door handles, taps, towels or smartphones. In order not to get sick again right away or infect others in the household, some things should be cleaned thoroughly after or preferably during the illness. We reveal which ones they are!

1. Smartphone, tablet, remote control and Co.

Being sick can get pretty boring. You quickly zaps through the TV channels or streaming portals, hanging on your smartphone or tablet. As a result, the germs spread quickly on the surfaces and stick there. You should therefore regularly wipe the remote control thoroughly with a disinfectant wipe. The surfaces and displays of smartphones and tablets can be carefully cleaned with a lens cleaning cloth or microfiber cloth . Make sure that no moisture gets into the cracks of non-waterproof cell phones.

2. Door handles, light switches and toilet flushing

By touching doorknobs, light switches, flushing toilets and even faucets, we quickly spread the bacteria and viruses in the home. In order to protect others from infection, you should wipe these objects regularly with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe . Also think about cupboard handles and the refrigerator door.

3. Toothbrushes and toothbrush cups

When brushing your teeth, viruses and bacteria get onto the toothbrush and into the toothbrush cup. When you brush your teeth again, these pathogens then get back into the mouth and throat. The body must continue to fight against the pathogens. To avoid this or another infection, you should rinse off the toothbrush with hot water during the cold and replace it after the illness . The toothbrush cup should be rinsed thoroughly under running water.

4. trash can

Used handkerchiefs in which the pathogens cavort and spread are piled up in the rubbish bin. As soon as the trash can is full, it should be emptied immediately. Also wipe the lid and any handles thoroughly. Tip: Use a small, separate rubbish bin for handkerchiefs , which you can e.g. B. can be placed next to the sofa or the bed.

5. Textiles and towels

Viruses and bacteria are best killed with a wash cycle of 60° or 95° . After a cold or flu, wash all items you have come into contact with at high temperatures. Especially towels, bed linen and clothes made of cotton can be washed in hot water. For all textiles that cannot be washed so hot, a disinfectant or vinegar can be helpful.

6. Toys and stuffed animals

Since the immune system of children is not yet fully developed and they are therefore very susceptible to germs, you should also clean the toys and stuffed animals after an illness . Plastic and wooden toys can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, while soft toys can be gently machine washed.

Crystal Waston MD

Crystal Waston has a degree in Cross Media Production and Publishing. At vital.de she gives everyday tips and deals with topics related to women's health, sport, and nutrition.

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