It’s easy to overlook the small things in life, and door handles are a prime example. Despite being used countless times a day, they are often neglected when it comes to cleanliness.
Not only are door handles one of the most frequently touched surfaces in any home, but they have also been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other experts as potential hotspots for virus transmission, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
Are Door Handles as Clean as You Think?
Most people rarely, if ever, consider cleaning their door handles. This oversight has turned them into ideal breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses.
Research published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology revealed that door handles can harbor up to 44 times more bacteria than toilet surfaces. This finding is surprising, as one would typically assume that toilets are the dirtiest areas in a home.
With the ongoing complexities of the pandemic, seemingly harmless surfaces like door handles have become a critical point of cross-infection within living spaces. Viruses can linger on these surfaces for hours or even days, transferring from an infected person’s hands to the surface and then to another person who touches the handle and subsequently touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.
Scientific Research Provides Clear Evidence
A study by Imperial College London identified traces of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on door handles and other frequently touched surfaces in households. This finding highlights the direct link between everyday objects and the spread of infections within small communities, such as families.
Therefore, disinfecting these surfaces, especially door handles, should be a top priority in our efforts to prevent the spread of diseases.
Cleaning Door Handles Effectively: A Simple Yet Crucial Task
Cleaning door handles is a straightforward process. Experts recommend using a disinfectant containing at least 60% alcohol or a specialized disinfectant product for this purpose.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Preliminary drying: Use a paper towel to remove dust or debris from the door handle.
- Spray disinfectant: Directly spray the disinfectant onto a clean cloth (or directly onto the surface if the product allows it).
- Thorough wiping: Ensure you wipe down the entire surface, including crevices, as these are favorite hiding spots for bacteria.
Recommended frequency: Clean door handles a minimum of 1–2 times per day, especially in high-traffic areas such as the front door, bathroom, kitchen, and common living areas. If someone in your household is suspected or confirmed to have an infection, increase the cleaning frequency to three times per day.
Don’t Forget About Other Frequently Touched Surfaces
In addition to door handles, remember to pay attention to other frequently touched surfaces, such as:
- Light switches
- TV and air conditioner remote controls
- Elevator buttons
- Stair railings
- Refrigerator handles
These “touchpoints” are often overlooked, but they can easily transmit bacteria if not regularly cleaned.
Small Actions Make a Big Difference in Health and Wellbeing
Cleaning door handles and other frequently touched surfaces is not just about protecting yourself from potential infections. It’s also an act of caring for your loved ones, especially the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Don’t let complacency open the door to viruses. Start by cleaning your door handles—it’s a simple habit that can significantly impact your family’s health and safety.
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