How to Properly Disinfect Your Home After the Flu, Norovirus, or Any Contagious Illness

by | Apr 9, 2025

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When illness hits your home—whether it’s the flu, norovirus, or another contagious bug—getting everyone healthy is only part of the recovery process. The next step is making sure your living space is thoroughly disinfected to help prevent the spread of germs to other family members or future visitors.

Here’s a practical guide to disinfecting your home after sickness:

  1. Focus on High-Touch Surfaces
    Germs can linger on surfaces for hours or even days. Prioritize cleaning the items and areas that get the most contact, such as:

  • Doorknobs and light switches
  • Remote controls and gaming controllers
  • Phones, tablets, and keyboards
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and cabinet handles
  • Bathroom faucet handles and toilet flush levers

Use an EPA-approved disinfectant or a homemade bleach solution (1/3 cup bleach per gallon of water) and follow the product’s directions for effective use.

  1. Clean Soft Surfaces
    Textiles and upholstered furniture can also hold onto germs. Be sure to:

  • Wash all bedding in hot water and dry on high heat
  • Disinfect decorative pillows and throws with a fabric-safe disinfectant spray
  • Vacuum rugs and steam clean if possible to sanitize deeper layers

  1. Deep Clean the Bathroom
    Bathrooms see the most exposure during illness and should be thoroughly disinfected.

  • Scrub the toilet, sink, and tub with a disinfecting cleaner
  • Wipe down all surfaces including countertops, cabinet handles, and mirrors
  • Sanitize or replace toothbrushes used during the illness

  1. Don’t Overlook the Kitchen
    Even if the sick individual didn’t spend time in the kitchen, this area can still be at risk.

  • Disinfect all countertops and frequently used appliance handles
  • Clean the dining table and chairs
  • Replace or sanitize dish sponges and cloths, as they can harbor bacteria

  1. Wash Laundry Thoroughly
    Any clothing, bedding, or towels used by the sick person should be cleaned right away.

  • Use the warmest water setting safe for the fabric
  • Dry items completely
  • Wipe down laundry baskets or hampers with disinfectant

  1. Clean the Floors and Empty the Trash

  • Vacuum carpets and rugs, and mop hard floors with disinfectant cleaner
  • Take out all trash and sanitize the bins, especially those in bedrooms and bathrooms

  1. Air Out Your Home

    If weather allows, open windows to let in fresh air. Improving airflow helps remove lingering germs and freshens the space after days of being cooped up.

A clean home promotes a healthy recovery and helps protect others from getting sick. Whether you’re trying to keep your family well or preparing your home for potential buyers, routine disinfecting is a smart habit—especially during cold and flu season.

For more helpful home care tips or guidance on buying or selling your home, reach out to Mr. Lister Realty at 410-486-5478 or visit www.MrListerRealty.com.