Keeping your home or workplace safe and healthy starts with one simple routine: cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces. These are the spots we all touch multiple times a day—think door handles, light switches, and elevator buttons. Germs love to hang out on these surfaces, so giving them regular attention is a smart way to stop the spread of illness.

Here’s an easy guide to help you clean and disinfect these important areas effectively.

 

What Are High-Touch Surfaces?

High-touch surfaces are any spots that many people touch often throughout the day. Some common examples include:

  • Door handles and knobs

  • Light switches

  • Handrails and stair banisters

  • Elevator buttons

  • Appliance handles (like fridge or microwave doors)

  • Remote controls and keyboards

  • Countertops and tabletops

Since these areas get so much use, they can quickly collect germs, bacteria, and viruses. That’s why regular cleaning and disinfecting is key to keeping everyone healthy.

 

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have:

  • Disposable gloves

  • Soap and water or a general cleaner

  • EPA-approved disinfectant (wipes, sprays, or solutions)

  • Clean clothes or disposable paper towels

Wearing gloves protects your hands from germs and harsh chemicals. Always follow the instructions on your cleaning and disinfecting products to stay safe and get the best results.

 

Step 2: Clean First, Then Disinfect

Cleaning removes dirt, grime, and debris from surfaces. This step helps disinfectants work better because germs hide under dirt.

  • Use soap and water or a general cleaner to wipe down the surface.

  • Use a clean cloth or disposable towel and discard it after use to avoid spreading germs.

  • Make sure to clean all sides of handles, knobs, and buttons since germs can hide in small crevices.

 

Step 3: Apply Disinfectant Properly

After cleaning, it’s time to kill the germs with a disinfectant.

  • Use an EPA-registered disinfectant or a bleach solution diluted according to the label.

  • Follow the instructions carefully, including how long the surface should stay wet (called contact or dwell time). This usually ranges from 3 to 10 minutes.

  • Do not wipe the surface dry before the recommended time; letting it air dry ensures the disinfectant kills the germs.

  • Avoid mixing different cleaning products as this can be dangerous.

 

Step 4: Repeat Regularly

High-touch surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected at least twice a day, or more often in busy places or during illness outbreaks. For homes, this might mean wiping down door handles and light switches every morning and evening. In offices or public spaces, cleaning may be needed several times daily.

 

Additional Tips for Effective Cleaning

  • Clear clutter from surfaces before cleaning to reach every spot.

  • Use alcohol-based wipes (with at least 70% alcohol) for electronics like keyboards and phones.

  • Encourage everyone to wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their face.

  • Keep cleaning supplies handy so you can quickly disinfect when needed.

 

Why Regular Cleaning and Disinfecting Matters

Germs spread quickly through touch, especially on shared surfaces. When you clean and disinfect regularly, you:

  • Reduce the chance of getting sick or spreading illness to others

  • Keep your environment looking fresh and well cared for

  • Create a safer space for family, friends, employees, or customers

 

Need Help Keeping Your Space Sparkling and Safe?

If you want to leave the hard work to the pros, Clean2Shine LLC is here to help. They specialize in thorough cleaning and disinfecting services tailored to your home or business needs. Their team uses trusted products and follows best practices to make sure your high-touch surfaces get the attention they deserve.

Visit their website at clean2shinellc.com to learn more about their services and schedule a cleaning.

 

Contact Clean2Shine LLC

Don’t wait until germs take over—reach out to Clean2Shine LLC today and enjoy a cleaner, healthier space!

 

By following these simple steps and staying consistent, you can protect yourself and those around you from germs lurking on high-touch surfaces. Whether you clean yourself or hire professionals like Clean2Shine LLC, keeping these spots disinfected is a smart habit for a healthier life.

 

 

Sources: clean2shinellc.com, semioffice.com
Header Image Source: Josue Michel on Unsplash