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COUNTERACTING COVID-19

03/27/2020
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As most are under a stay-at-home order during the COVID-19 outbreak, people are finding new ways to stay entertained as well as ward off the virus. In an effort to be a source of information during this time, we’re addressing the impact of proper humidity and cleaning methods and how to apply them to not only your home, but also our furniture.

 

COVID-19 AND HUMIDITY

 

Even prior to COVID-19, we’ve emphasized the importance of monitoring proper humidity levels. The right humidity level promotes a healthy home environment not only for living beings, but also household items and air quality.

 

High temperatures and humidity reduces the transmission of viruses. Viruses are more stable in cold temperatures where humidity levels are lower. Respiratory droplets, which transmit viruses, stay airborne longer in dry air. Cold and dry weather naturally weakens the immune system, making hosts more susceptible to sickness. We briefly touched on this in a previous blog, before the COVID-19 outbreak, but keeping a 45-50% humidity level best prevents the spread of viruses. This virus, with its aversion to the sun, can be killed at about 77 degrees.

 

COVID-19 AND SURFACES

 

It’s easy to forget how quickly/long this stuff can spread/live on surfaces, so it’s important to stay informed and be proactive.

According to Stanford Medical Center:

  • Metal Surfaces can host the virus for at least 12 hours.
  • On fabric, the virus can live up to 6-12 hours. Normal laundry detergent will kill COVID-19.

 

COVID-19 AND CLEANING

 

The information above brings us to the questions, what is the best way to keep homes sanitized and what are safe cleaning methods for Element Furniture products?

 

For the first question, many have proposed establishing a cleaning routine:

  • Change household towels often.
  • Wash your hands after handling dirty laundry.
  • Sanitize faucets, counters, door knobs, light switches, and handles daily.
  • Know the difference between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning includes the use of water and soap. Disinfecting would be using a stronger solution ranging from bleach, rubbing alcohol, etc.
  • Check expiration dates on cleaning solutions.
  • After wiping the area from surface dirt, it is suggested to let chemicals sit for up to 5 minutes. We don’t suggest soaking our tables and leaves for long periods of time as a microscopic gap in the finish can allow liquids to seep in and do damage. The protective finish is very chemical-resistant and water-resistant, so most household cleaners/disinfectants are fine.
  • Establish a routine when you first get home. Wash your hands, disinfect your phone, keys, sunglasses, etc.

 

To answer what the sanitation process looks like when cleaning #REF furniture surfaces, there are many options. It’s important to keep in mind that we use some of the best finish on the market, but it is not indestructible. Our clear coat creates a well-sealed surface, but keep in mind there is still texture and grain. It is possible that the tiniest, microscopic gap in the finish could allow a solution to seep in and impact the finish. So, the same rules apply as before, use common sense. Strong household cleaners such as 409, Lysol Wipes, Lysol Spray, and, at this time, bleach solutions, won’t affect the integrity of the finish. Just be sure to wipe up any residue. If you have pieces from some of our trade partners, finished by them, for the most part, the same rules apply. They use a good finish, but we suggest not cleaning with anything overly strong.

 

We hope this has brought a little bit of insight during this time and clarified the impact that humidity and cleaning methods can have on you, your home, and the virus.

 

Please keep in mind, we’re still taking orders via email, phone, or Skype. Any questions that come up, contact us!

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