8 Things to Clean — or Toss — After Being Sick

Following a sickness, one can often be relieved to be feeling back to normal, but it’s important to keep in mind what you may need to clean, or even throw away, so you can stay as healthy as possible.

Cleaning your home after recovering from an illness is essential to prevent the spread of germs and protect the health of household members. Viruses like the flu can survive on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours, while certain bacteria may persist for months, increasing the risk of reinfection or transmission to others.  

High-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and faucet handles are common hotspots for pathogens. Regularly disinfecting these surfaces helps eliminate lingering germs and reduces the likelihood of illness spreading within the household.  

In addition to high-touch surfaces, it’s important to clean personal items like bedding, towels, and clothing used during the illness. Washing these items in hot water and using appropriate disinfectants can further minimize the risk of reinfection.  

Maintaining a clean environment after sickness not only supports the recovery process but also promotes overall well-being by ensuring a healthier living space for everyone.

AARP has put together a list of areas where you should clean and items you should throw away after sickness. To read the piece, CLICK HERE.