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Maintaining good household hygiene is a key step in preventing the spread of germs and keeping you and your family safe. But can viruses live on clothes? What kills viruses on surfaces? This guide has got all the answers so you can stop the spread of germs for a happy, healthy home. How long do germs live on surfaces?Here’s the bad news - some germs, like bacterial spores, can survive indefinitely. The lifespan of germs varies so much that some, for example, E.coli and Salmonella may only live for around 20 minutes when actively multiplying, while other bacteria can become dormant and actually survive millions of years! Examples:
AdvertisementBecause of this, it’s important to maintain good levels of household hygiene, even if you think you or a family member haven’t been sick. How long do germs live on clothes?We often think of germs as nasty things lurking on hard surfaces such as door handles and bathroom floors. But can viruses live on clothes? And how long do germs live on fabric? The answer is that it depends. Viruses and bacteria can live on soft surfaces and clothes, but how the survival of germs on fabrics depends on several factors: The Poll How concerned are you about disinfecting while cleaning? 0 Votes
What kills viruses on surfaces?Now you know the answer to ‘how long do viruses live on surfaces?’, let’s look at what kills bacteria on surfaces, including viruses and disease, and the steps you need to follow to help keep your home hygienic:
Does washing clothes kill viruses?Once you’ve been ill, it’s important to clean your clothes as well as surfaces around the house. But does washing clothes kill viruses and bacteria? Very simply, yes, but there are some key steps to follow to make sure your clothes are virus-free:
Germ-fighting laundry tip! You can also use Persil antibacterial laundry sanitiser when washing clothes to kill germs. Add it to the wash along with your favourite Persil detergent to give extra protection. It kills 99.9% viruses* and bacteria even at 20°C making it a great way to help disinfect your clothes and your machine! For more tips on how to disinfect clothes, check out this handy guide on disinfecting clothes. How to stop the spread of germsWhile germs will always be around the household, you can take a few simple measures to stop them from spreading:
For more tips on ensuring your home is clean and ready to tackle and prevent germs spreading, check out our handy guide on preparing your home for a virus outbreak. Other home hygiene questions:How long does norovirus live on fabric? Viruses such as norovirus can live on soft surfaces and fabrics for up to 12 days. It’s therefore important to wash contaminated clothing as soon as possible, and separately from non-contaminated clothing. How long does E. coli live on clothes? E. coli is nasty bacteria that can occur when infected food and drink is consumed. If you or a family member has been sick due to E. coli, it’s important to wash contaminated clothing as it can lurk on clothes for weeks. Wash infected clothing as soon as possible to prevent the spread. Does the dryer kill germs on clothes? Wondering ‘does the dryer kill bacteria on clothes’? Well, the answer is yes! In fact, heat from the dryer is particularly effective at killing germs. If your clothes are unsuitable for the tumble dryer – or you need an alternative – hang your clothes outdoors or in direct sunlight. UV light from the sun will help to disinfect clothing. How long does salmonella live on fabric? Salmonella is normally caused by eating infected foodstuffs and can be spread easily if good food and personal hygiene is not maintained. The infection can live on clothes for weeks and so washing contaminated clothing is vital to keep you and your family healthy. For more tips on food hygiene and avoiding cross-contamination. And there you have it! Keeping your home free of nasty germs and viruses has never been so easy! Recovering from the flu and looking to disinfect your home? Read our guide on flu cleaning to ensure your home is clean, hygienic, and germ-free! *Laboratory tested on Influenza H1N1, Vacciniavirus, murine coronavirus (EN14476, 10 mins). How long do cold germs live on couch?Cold viruses can survive on indoor surfaces for up to seven days, but are infectious only for about 24 hours. Cold viruses can survive on indoor surfaces for up to seven days, but are infectious only for about 24 hours.
Do cold and flu germs live on clothing?However, you can also pick up germs on your outer clothes, for example if you nurse someone with an illness or clean up vomit. Germs can also get onto outer clothing if you handle contaminated food or brush against a soiled object. Most germs can survive on fabrics for some time.
How long do cold germs spread?You can spread the common cold from a few days before your symptoms appear until all of the symptoms are gone. Most people will be contagious for up to 2 weeks. Symptoms are usually worse during the first 2 to 3 days, and this is when you're most likely to spread the virus.
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