Safe Laundry Practices to Protect Against the Spread of the Coronavirus

The spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to affect communities throughout the United States and the world. Based on what we currently know about the virus, it is believed to be steadfast in fabric – meaning it may stick around on linens and clothing. That’s why we’ve developed a series of tips to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to defend yourself against this outbreak. Below, you’ll find some of WASH’s virus-fighting best practice tips for the laundry room as well as the CDC’s guidelines for handling and cleaning laundry that has come into contact with those infected by COVID-19. Remember to handle all infected laundry with care!

• Be Quick — Clothes and bedding should be removed and washed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection.
• Be Thorough – Wear disposable gloves when handling laundry that could potentially be infected, and keep soiled items as far away from your body while loading them.
• Be Sanitary – After loading the machine, wipe down any knobs, handles and other commonly touched surfaces you may have interacted with. Sanitize your hands afterwards with soap and warm water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Use Heat – The CDC guidelines recommend drying the fabric on the highest heat setting applicable to destroy the virus, as well as using of the warmest water the fabric allows to further disinfect.
• Separate Loads – Be sure to run separate loads for sick and healthy individuals. For extra protection, you could add a bleaching agent (chlorine or oxygen-based) to your wash which will aid in the sanitation of the load.

You can further protect yourself by regularly sanitizing with disinfectant spray or wipes according to the label’s instructions. Be sure to wear gloves any time you are handling infected material or cleaning chemicals. Remember to thoroughly wash or sanitize your hands any time you contact with “high touch” surfaces and to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Wishing you and your loved ones health and safety.