As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we’ve all become prisoners in our own homes.
And while lockdown restrictions have eased across several U.S. states, people are still being urged to comply with social distancing regulations—rightfully so.
While stepping outside your home is threatening enough as is, staying indoors doesn’t eliminate the risk entirely. In fact, according to public health expert William Schaffner, tightly enclosed spaces that lack adequate ventilation pose a high threat of getting exposed.
While steering clear of COVID-19 by staying indoors may sound like a safe bet, it’s still a big risk for people who don’t take protective measures.
Here are some ways you can make your home a coronavirus-safe zone:
1. Clean, Sanitize, and Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
One of the best ways to eliminate the risk of COVID-19 is by actively cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting high-touch surfaces. Follow the three-step process for:
- Door handles
- Light switches
- Faucets
- Countertops
- Bed rails
- Chairs
- Bedside tables
- Smartphones and computers
- Remotes
This measure will help lower the risk of infection.
It’s important to ensure that you follow each step. While cleaning only removes dirt and debris, sanitization rids the surface of contaminants. Disinfection further destroys all microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
2. Ensure Adequate Ventilation by Opting for Versatile Dutch Doors
Installing a pair of Dutch doors is a great way to improve ventilation in your home.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ensuring adequate ventilation and implementing the COVID-19 protection practices recommended by the CDC reduces the risk of spreading the virus.
While the bottom half of a classic Dutch door is securely held in place, the top half freely swings open. This is a great way to get some much-needed fresh air and ensure optimal ventilation.
3. Handle and Dispose of Trash Properly
Use disposable gloves when handling and disposing of trash to ensure your living space is free of contaminants.
In addition, place trash bags in a secure area to ensure pets don’t accidentally interact with it. Use an alcohol-based cleaning product to thoroughly sanitize and disinfect each surface of the trash can.
4. Take Off and Store Shoes Outside
According to a recent study conducted by the CDC, coronavirus can survive on shoe soles. Whether you take a stroll in your patio or go on a nearby hike, take special care to remove your shoes and store them outside.
We suggest installing a shoe rack a few feet away from your iron entry doors. If, for some reason, you can’t remove and store your shoes outside, spray them with a disinfectant before you step inside your home.
5. Keep Grocery Bags Away From Countertops
Taking adequate measures to protect your living space after a grocery run is imperative.
Instead of storing your grocery bags on the kitchen island, get rid of them in the exterior trashcan. This will ensure your cooking and dining space is clean and protected. If you receive a package in the mail, wipe it with a disinfectant to reduce risk.
You should also wipe the surfaces that come in contact with the questionable object. Ideally, unbox packages outside. If possible, unload groceries near your front door as well to ensure adequate and timely disposal of the bags.
6. Opt for Sliding Doors or Barn Doors to Reduce Contact With Handles
Investing in doors that require minimal contact is a great way to reduce the risk of spreading infection. Steel sliding doors and barn doors open and close seamlessly with a slight, barely-there touch.
While we still suggest disinfecting the surface, you’ll reap the benefits of reducing contact with door handles that require a firm and wide grip.
As the leading door design and manufacturing company across America, we offer a wide range of practical and safe steel windows and doors, affordable iron doors, pocket steel doors, and wrought iron entry doors. Our team thoroughly sanitizes, disinfects, and sterilizes each door, window, and accessory before delivery.
Make the most of our ongoing sale to get started! We’re currently offering up to 60% off on pre-sale items. Head over to our online store to invest in your favorite wrought iron and steel doors!