How to use disinfectants properly?

After the world was shaken by the new coronavirus at the beginning of 2020., disinfectants became the best-selling item in many stores. Their effectiveness in fighting the virus has been confirmed and their use is also recommended in the flu season or some other viruses. They destroy viruses and bacteria on the hands or surfaces and are very effective in preventing infection. However, improper handling will not exploit their potential and can save the virus from destruction. Throughout the text, we guide you through the proper use of disinfectant, so keep reading and protect yourself and your loved ones from being infected by a virus.

Disinfectants are very useful, especially in the current period

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is protected by the envelope and belongs to the group of viruses that are quite easily destroyed. The negative side of these viruses is that they can survive on many surfaces for up to several days, and therefore need to be destroyed. Disinfectants, products that destroy various microorganisms, such as viruses, fungi, bacteria and similar, will help.Various products can help you fight the virus, they can be ordinary detergents, soaps, and shower gels. Although disinfectants are recommended for complete protection against viruses, it is very important that you regularly take care of your personal hygiene. You can read more about disinfectants in What are disinfectants?

Proper hand washing

Although considered by many to be a simple and quick activity, proper hand washing is essential for protection against viruses. Wetting your hands with water, rubbing soap twice and rinsing your hands is not a proper wash, and does not guarantee the safe removal of the virus from the surface. Therefore, we provide more detailed hand washing instructions from World Health Organization, which will remove any impurities and viruses from them. In addition, in the current pandemic period, it is recommended that you wash your hands more often, as one of measures of protection against the virus.

1. Open the faucet and soak your hands
2. Put liquid soap on hand (Ideal to use automatic soap dispenser, especially in public places)
3. Rub your hands into the palm of your hand
4. Rub the left hand with the right between the fingers from the top, and repeat the procedure with the right hand as well
5. Rub the space between your fingers as your hands are turned palm to palm
6. Rub the inside of your fingers
7. Wash your thumbs thoroughly with both hands so that you grasp each one with your other hand and rotate
8. Wash your palms with your fingertips
9. Wash your hands under water
10. Wipe your hands with disposable paper, which you also use to close the tap

By following these 10 steps, your hands will be completely clean. Try to avoid touching door handles or other surfaces after washing your hands so that they do not become contaminated with the virus again. The riskiest areas are the toilet door handles, especially the side door closers. There are different types of disinfectants, and we have written in detail about what the CIPH recommends, What are the differences between active substances in disinfectants ?. There are different types of disinfectants, and we have written in detail about what the CIPH recommends, in the text What are the differences between active substances in disinfectants ?. You yourself know that there are disinfectants for personal hygiene and surface disinfection. Use hand sanitizers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Try to choose only those tested according to EN 14476, which the disinfectants against viruses are tested with. This will ensure that they are effective against the coronavirus, which is currently the world’s largest health threat.

It is recommended to use them after washing hands, if it is possible. Impurities and dirt can be left on the hands, which will prevent the disinfectant from working completely. For this reason, always try to wash your hands before. If you have washed your hands in a public place, after leaving the toilet, disinfect your hands with a disinfectant. Shake the product in one palm and store it in your bag, then rub your hands thoroughly. Do not do that superficially, and do not neglect the space between the fingers or the tips of the fingers. In the operating instructions, the manufacturer will also indicate what quantities you should use. 

Surface disinfectants

Hand washing and disinfection is not the only measure to prevent infection. It will not be effective if the area around you is contaminated with a virus. The Covid-19 virus stays on the surface for several tens of hours, so it is essential that you regularly disinfect the surfaces you are in contact with. Pay special attention to the disinfection of frequently touching surfaces, such as the television control, cell phone, keyboard (especially if more people are using a computer), and of course, the handle.

In addition to surfaces, it is important to disinfect shoes and clothing. The virus can be introduced into the house via the sole of shoes and sneakers, so be sure to wash it immediately after entering the house. Follow the instructions to disinfect all surfaces, the most effective are liquid syringes. You can also use disinfection wipes, but they are not that much effective in fighting against the virus.

Proper use of disinfectants and regular hand washing are the key to defending against the virus

No matter how old you are and how strong your immune system is, fighting the virus requires frequent hand washing and the use of disinfectants. They will protect you from the virus and make sure it does not come in contact with your mouth, nose and eyes. Follow the rules and tips for washing your hands, use disinfectants regularly, and try not to touch the face area.