Understanding the Coronavirus Survival on Surfaces
Before we delve into the specifics of temperatures, it is important to know how long the coronavirus can survive on various surfaces. Recent studies have indicated that the coronavirus can remain viable on different surfaces for varying durations.
- On plastic and stainless steel surfaces, the virus can survive for up to 72 hours.
- On cardboard surfaces, the virus can survive for up to 24 hours.
Keep in mind that these durations might change depending on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.
The Importance of Washing Clothes Properly
Just as with other surfaces, the coronavirus can potentially survive on clothes for a certain period. That is why it becomes crucial to wash your clothes properly, especially if you suspect they have been exposed to the virus.
Washing clothes with detergent and water helps to remove any potential virus particles present. However, the temperature of the water also plays a significant role.
The Optimal Temperature for Killing the Coronavirus
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), using hot water for laundering your clothes is recommended. The CDC suggests a temperature of at least 140°F (60°C) for effective virus eradication.
Washing your clothes at this temperature will likely kill the coronavirus and other pathogens that may be present. However, if you do not have access to hot water or your clothing cannot withstand high temperatures, do not worry. The use of regular detergent and the agitation from the washing machine will still provide a significant reduction in virus presence.
Additional Tips for Laundering Clothes Safely
Here are some additional tips to ensure you are laundering your clothes safely:
- Sort your laundry by color and fabric type to prevent any damage or color bleeding.
- Use the appropriate amount of detergent based on the load size and consider using a detergent with disinfectant properties.
- Dry your clothes thoroughly using a dryer or by air-drying in sunlight.
- Consider washing items that may have been exposed to the virus separately from your regular laundry.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling any potentially contaminated laundry.
Keeping your clothes clean and virus-free is crucial during a pandemic. By understanding the survival time of the coronavirus on different surfaces and using the appropriate temperature for laundering, you can greatly reduce the risk of transmission through clothing. Remember to follow guidelines set by health authorities and do your part in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the temperature required to kill the coronavirus in the washing machine. Stay safe and stay healthy!