1. Gather the necessary supplies
Before you begin the cleaning process, make sure you have the following supplies ready:
- Dishwashing gloves
- Dishwashing liquid or detergent
- Hot water
- A separate cleaning sponge or brush
- Designated dish towels
2. Separate and isolate
To prevent cross-contamination, it is advisable to use separate dishes and utensils for the COVID patient. This ensures that their items do not mix with those of other household members. Isolating their dishes also simplifies the cleaning process, making it more manageable.
3. Wear protective gear
Before you begin cleaning, put on a pair of dishwashing gloves as an added layer of protection. By wearing gloves, you reduce the chances of directly contacting any potentially contaminated surfaces on the dishes.
4. Pre-rinse the dishes
Before washing the dishes in hot water, it is recommended to pre-rinse them to remove any visible food remains. This initial rinse helps ensure that the dishwashing process is more effective in eliminating potential traces of the virus.
5. Use hot water and dishwashing liquid
Fill the sink or a basin with hot water and add an ample amount of dishwashing liquid or detergent. Hot water helps kill bacteria and viruses effectively, while the soap breaks down the grease and oil on the dishes.
6. Scrub dishes thoroughly
Using a separate cleaning sponge or brush dedicated to the COVID patient’s dishes, scrub each item thoroughly. Pay special attention to areas that may have come into contact with the infected person’s saliva or respiratory secretions (e.g., utensil handles, rim of plates, etc.).
7. Rinse with hot water
After scrubbing the dishes, rinse them with hot water to remove any remaining soap residue. The hot water serves as an additional safety measure to eliminate any potential viruses that may still be on the dishes.
8. Drying and storing
Using designated dish towels, dry the dishes completely. Avoid using the same towels for other household members’ dishes to minimize the risk of transmission. Additionally, ensure the dishes are stored separately from other clean dishes, maintaining the isolation method throughout the entire process.
9. Sanitize the cleaning tools
Lastly, make sure to sanitize the cleaning tools used to wash the COVID patient’s dishes. This can be done by soaking the sponge or brush in a diluted bleach solution for at least 30 minutes or by running them through the dishwasher on a high-temperature cycle.
By following these steps, you can safely clean dishes for a COVID patient, reducing the risk of spreading the virus within your household. Remember, it is essential to maintain good hand hygiene before and after handling the patient’s dishes to minimize any potential exposure.
Always prioritize safety and adhere to the guidelines provided by local health authorities to protect yourself and your loved ones.