8 things per second that must be disinfected before use

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Second-hand items can often come in handy or turn out to be a very successful purchase. However, it is worth remembering that some of these purchases should be disinfected before use.

Clothes

The key to cleaning used clothes is to take the time to read the care labels when you buy them. Some items, such as coats, structured jackets and embellished items, will need to be sent to a professional dry cleaner, but washable clothing can be cleaned and sanitized at home.

After you bring the garment home, check the care label to make sure the garment is machine washable or hand washable. It is better to wash each item separately by hand or use the delicate mode of the washing machine to prevent the dye from getting on other items. Use cool water and regular laundry detergent, and on the last rinse, add laundry detergent or half a cup of vinegar to fight bacteria left on the fabric.

Shoes

If you've found the perfect pair of shoes at a thrift store, it's important to clean the inside even more than the outside. If possible, remove and replace the insole, then treat it with a disinfectant spray to kill bacteria and fungus. You can also disinfect the inside of your shoes by mixing a 50:50 solution of rubbing alcohol and water. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and wipe all internal surfaces.

For exterior surfaces, choose appropriate cleaning products and methods. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt and dust, treat stains on canvas shoes with a mild detergent, or use a leather shoe conditioner to keep them soft and supple. Allow shoes to air dry before wearing.

Bedding

Sheets and blankets should be washed according to label instructions. For washable items, use regular laundry detergent and add laundry detergent or one cup of vinegar to the final rinse cycle. Vintage quilts can be hand washed in the tub using a mild detergent and cool water.

Pillows and curtains

To bleach yellowed laundry, mix a solution of oxygen bleach with warm water, submerge the items and leave overnight. Repeat if necessary.

On cushions, curtains and other fabric products, spot clean stains with a damp cloth and stain remover. Then disinfect the fabric with a garment steamer. The heated steam will kill bacteria and dust mites and help eliminate unpleasant odors. Allow products to air dry before use.

Upholstered furniture

Begin cleaning by giving the upholstery a good vacuum to remove dust. Move slowly and do not forget to vacuum under the pillows, the bottom and the back of the product. Spot clean stained areas with upholstery stain remover and a microfiber cloth. Use a steam cleaner (also kills dust mites) to disinfect your upholstery and remove unpleasant odors. If you don't have a steam cleaner, spray lightly with a sanitizing spray and allow the upholstery to air dry before use.

Wooden and metal furniture

To clean wooden furniture and decorative elements, mix a solution of warm water with a few drops of dishwashing liquid in a bucket. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution, wring it out well, and wipe every surface. Clean heavily soiled areas with light pressure. Wash off the remaining soap solution with a clean cloth soaked in plain water, then dry well. Use a conditioning oil or polish to restore shine and bring out the wood's natural texture.

Metal furniture can be washed with the same warm water and dishwashing liquid solution. Use a soft cloth and wipe every surface. To remove hard water stains and tarnish from chrome, use a solution of 50% vinegar and 50% plain water and immediately wipe the surfaces dry to keep the chrome shiny and streak-free.

Glassware and flatware

The sturdy glasses, cutlery and crockery can be washed in the dishwasher to clean and disinfect them and they will be ready for use. For more delicate items, such as crystal wine glasses, hand-painted items, hollow-handled knives, or metal-trimmed dishes, hand wash in warm, soapy water.

To disinfect non-metallic items after hand washing, add two Tbsp. spoons of chlorine bleach per 4 liters of water and soak for 10 minutes. Rinse well and dry with a clean cloth.

Decorative items

Glass, ceramic and porcelain: Wash in warm, soapy water, rinse in hot water and dry with a microfiber cloth. Or wipe with a damp soapy cloth, rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry well.

Metal parts: Wash in warm soapy water to remove surface dust and dirt, rinse well and polish with a suitable metal cleaner. If they don't soak, wipe with a soapy cloth and then a clean, damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.