Combat the Coronavirus in Your Home
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has made its mark worldwide, and for those of us living in the Savannah, GA area, its presence has touched every aspect of our lives. The team at Ernest Homes is not only following best practices and government guidelines while we build new homes for our family of customers, we’re also partnering with you to make your home feel like a safe, healthy sanctuary. Below are some of our favorite tips – and if you have ideas of your own, please share them with us!
Why Home Hygiene Still Matters
Even as recommendations evolve, simple everyday habits still make a big difference. Clean hands, disinfected high-touch surfaces, smart shopping and a little planning can all help reduce germs in your home and give you more peace of mind.
Wash Your Hands – Again and Again
One of the best ways to help prevent the spread of coronavirus and many other illnesses is consistent hand hygiene. You already know the basics: use soap and water whenever possible, scrub for at least 20 seconds and rinse well. Make it easy for everyone in the household by keeping every sink stocked with soap and disposable hand towels.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (with at least 60% alcohol) are helpful when you’re away from a sink, but plain old soap and water is still the gold standard. The key is washing long enough. If you’re tired of silently singing “Happy Birthday” twice, have some fun with it. Use the Wash Your Lyrics generator to turn your favorite songs into custom 20-second hand-washing posters for the whole family.
Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
Disinfecting is huge when it comes to fighting germs. Keep a small cleaning caddy handy with disposable wipes or microfiber cloths, spray bottles of cleaner and paper towels. Pay extra attention to high-touch areas such as:
- Door knobs and cabinet pulls
- Light switches and lamp switches
- Faucets, toilet handles and appliance handles
- Tables, countertops and desks
- Remote controls, keyboards and computer mice
- Stair rails and banisters
If you touch it several times a day, clean it regularly. Always follow the directions on the label and let disinfectants air-dry so the active ingredients have time to work.
For a list of EPA-registered products that meet criteria for use against coronavirus, check this round-up of recommended cleaners. You may already have some of them tucked away in a cabinet.
For more detailed guidance on cleaning and disinfecting your home, visit the CDC’s cleaning and disinfection page.
Be Smart About Toilet Paper & Everyday Supplies
We’ve all seen the jokes and the empty shelves. When it comes to toilet paper and other staples, try to buy only what your household truly needs, plus a reasonable backup. A little cushion is fine; stockpiling huge amounts makes it harder for neighbors to find essentials.
Shop and Stock Up with Care
If someone in your home is at higher risk (older adults or those with certain health conditions), or if someone becomes sick, you’ll want enough food and drinks on hand to minimize trips out. Unlike hurricane prep, you’re unlikely to lose power or water, which gives you more flexibility in what you buy.
Plan a simple, realistic menu that includes:
- Frozen fruits, vegetables and meals
- Pasta, rice, beans and pantry staples
- Meats and proteins you can freeze or cook ahead
- Dairy items with reasonable shelf lives
- Plenty of water and low-sugar beverages
Mix in a few favorite snacks to keep spirits up, but try not to clear the shelves of any one item. Varying your menus also helps avoid “food boredom” while you’re spending more time at home.
Visit “Club Med” Before You Need It
Make sure regular prescriptions are filled to the longest supply your pharmacy allows, and keep basic over-the-counter items on hand: fever reducers, pain relievers, cough syrup, decongestants, throat lozenges and plenty of tissues. Having a small “comfort kit” ready before anyone feels under the weather can save stress later.
Keep Everyone Entertained
If your school district isn’t fully set up for distance learning, or if you’re juggling work-from-home with restless kids, you’ll need a variety of distractions. Video games and streaming shows are fine in moderation, but mix in offline fun too. This handy list of things to do with kids during quarantine is packed with crafts, games and creative ideas the whole family can enjoy.
Use This Time to Plan Your Next Move
While the coronavirus has been keeping us close to home and to the people we love, it can also be a great time to dream about what comes next. If a new home is in your future, you can safely explore your options from the comfort of your couch. Take virtual tours, learn more about our new home communities and browse our current selection of available homes.
When you’re ready for more information or a personal virtual tour, reach out to our sales team. We’re here to help you protect the home you live in now and imagine the one you’ll love next.
