Let’s be honest: tackling laundry can feel about as enjoyable as a cactus wedged in your backside. And thanks to COVID-19, many of us find ourselves doing laundry more than ever before.
I’ve developed a new routine where I change out of my clothes immediately after returning from the grocery store—my only public outing for weeks. Initially, I thought this was a bit excessive, but it quickly became clear that a cautious approach was necessary. My partner, Max, follows suit when he returns from his shifts stocking shelves at a local store; he washes his hands, tosses his clothes in the washing machine, and then cleans his hands again before stepping into the shower. My new motto? “We can’t be too careful.” I’d rather do a bit more cleaning than risk my family’s health.
Washing clothes right away prevents germs from lingering in our home. After all, I can only imagine the chaos if Max decided to toss his clothes on the floor, stepping on them before checking if they still smell fresh. You know how it goes!
But am I being too cautious? Or perhaps not cautious enough? For those of you with kids, you’re likely seasoned pros at removing stains, whether it’s mustard or other mysterious substances. But what’s the right laundry protocol during a pandemic?
According to The New York Times, while guidelines may evolve as we learn more about the virus, clothing shouldn’t be at the top of your worry list. Experts emphasize that frequent hand washing with soap and water (or hand sanitizer) is the most effective preventative measure. Biomedical researcher Laura Cummings reinforces this, noting that changing out of clothes and shoes worn outside is a wise practice, especially if you’ve been on public transport or at a job where you interact with many people.
So, my routine with Max isn’t excessive after all, considering the potential exposure he faces. The article also mentions that if someone sneezes or coughs near you, it’s advisable to change your clothes immediately and wash your hands when you get home.
Cummings explains, “If your clothes come into contact with contaminated surfaces—like leaning against a subway pole—you could inadvertently bring the virus home.” The CDC recommends washing laundry in the hottest water possible and advises against shaking out clothes before washing them to prevent airborne virus particles. When drying, use the highest temperature suitable for your fabrics. For delicate items that can’t handle the heat, it’s best to keep them stored away until the pandemic subsides.
If you’re doing laundry for family members who have been out in public, consider wearing gloves, disposing of them after use, and washing your hands immediately after. If someone in your household is ill, you can wash their clothes with others, but be sure to disinfect your laundry hamper or use a liner that can be easily cleaned or discarded.
When using a laundromat, which remains open as an essential service, you don’t need to worry about shared machines but do take care with the surfaces you touch and keep a safe distance from others.
In summary, the best practices for doing laundry during this pandemic are straightforward: wash your clothes as soon as you get home in the hottest water possible, and wash your hands after handling them. It may feel like an adjustment to your normal laundry routine, but a few extra steps can go a long way in keeping your family healthy. For more insights on mental health during conception, check out this post. And if you’re interested in home insemination resources, CryoBaby is an excellent choice. For comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Healthline.
Summary
During the pandemic, laundry routines may require adjustments to protect your family. Change out of clothes after returning from public places, wash immediately in hot water, and maintain strict hand hygiene. These practices, while slightly different from your usual laundry habits, are essential for minimizing risks.
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