There’s never been a greater emphasis put on cleanliness than this moment in time. Handwashing, wiping down frequently touched surfaces and, of course, laundry. It’s worth noting that laundromats are listed as essential businesses because of their front-line service in this COVID-19 fight.
While this fight remains fluid, we know that the virus can remain active on a variety of surfaces for hours and this may include clothing and linens. An article recently published on huffpost.com quoted one doctor a saying that polyester and spandex-like material may hold bacteria longer than cotton-based fabrics.
Knowing that today’s fashion trends include a heavy dose of these materials in leggings, athletic wear and casual wear, laundering these items is of paramount importance. The article also notes that we need to be cognizant of zippers and buttons on our garments that also may hold germs longer than fabric.
Laundromats remain open and provide an exceptional option for laundering personal items, due to superior hot water temperatures and the high heat of commercial tumble dryers. Hot water and drying items fully with high heat are both recommended by the CDC. When it comes to laundry chemicals and getting things clean, bleach is always a solid option, but you also need to balance detergent options and washing instructions on the garments. When visiting a laundromat, be sure to follow your specific laundry’s use guidelines, which may include waiting outside or in your vehicle for loads to complete and taking clothes home to fold.
Clean laundry has always been a basic need and now more than ever it’s a key component to helping stop the spread of this virus.
To read the full huffpost.com article, click here.
