Frequency of Laundering Comfortable Garments During the Coronavirus Outbreak
In these unprecedented times, maintaining good hygiene is more important than ever. From the moment we leave our homes until we return, it's crucial to stay vigilant against potential contaminants.
A recent study has shown that the coronavirus can live for 10-12 hours on metal surfaces but dies within an hour on paper [1]. This highlights the importance of keeping on top of hygiene, even when it comes to our clothing.
Dr. Alok Vij, a dermatologist, recommends washing clothes regularly to reduce the risk of contamination and virus spread. He advises washing quarantine clothes after each use, ideally at a high temperature of around 60°C if the fabric allows, as this temperature is effective for killing germs and viruses [2]. If washing at 60°C is not possible, washing at 40°C with a bleach-based detergent can also help sanitize the clothes.
When it comes to washing methods, using the warmest water setting safe for the fabric is recommended (check clothing labels). A regular laundry detergent is sufficient, though adding bleach-based products can increase disinfection at lower temperatures [3]. It's also important to use a washing machine cycle that is long enough to clean thoroughly but not so long as to damage the clothes. An "express" cycle of moderate length has been recommended by some laundry experts as effective and gentle on fabrics [4].
Drying clothes completely after washing is also crucial. Preferably, use a dryer on medium or high heat, as heat further helps to kill pathogens.
While it's important to wash your clothes regularly, it's also worth noting that sweats and jeans can go a few days without washing as long as they're not sweaty or visibly soiled [5]. Tighter fitting clothes should be worn once or a couple of times before washing, as they can rub off more dead skin cells and skin oils, potentially causing them to get stinky and potentially cause body acne [6].
When out in public during a pandemic, it's important to assume someone could be carrying the coronavirus. Dr. Vij recommends keeping sanitizer in your car to clean your hands after being out in public [7].
In summary, wash quarantine clothes after each wear, ideally at 60°C or 40°C with bleach, using a standard or express washing machine cycle, and dry them thoroughly to ensure disinfection and safety. When out in public, remember to stay vigilant and sanitize your hands regularly.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7003415/ [2] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html [3] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/disinfection-environmental-cleaning.html [4] https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-washing-machine/ [5] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html#Clothing [6] https://www.healthline.com/health/acne/clothing#causes [7] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html#hand-hygiene
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