The COVID-19 outbreak has prompted a lot of us to start thinking about things we’ve never wondered before, like, “How do I keep my kids busy at home?”, “How many hours of Netflix can I watch in one sitting?”, and of course, the reason we’re here, “Does anyone have tips on how to clean reusable grocery bags?”.
Cleaning and disinfecting your grocery bags not only helps stop the spread of germs, but also helps halt food cross-contamination. Think of all the different foods you throw into your reusable bags, from meat to dairy to items from the bulk bin that meet and greet one another. Yup, it’s time to clean.
The Difference between Cleaning & Disinfecting
Before we get down and dirty with the how to wash reusable bags tips, it’s good to understand the difference between cleaning and disinfecting. There’s an important distinction that is especially pertinent right now:
- Cleaning: removes germs, dirt, and grime from objects and surfaces. You can clean with soap or detergent and water. You can’t count on cleaning to kill germs, but it will lower the amount of them on the surface or object.
- Disinfecting: kills germs on objects and surfaces. This lowers the risk of spreading germs or infections, but does not necessarily clean the objects or surfaces.
The takeaway here is that it’s a two-step process: first, clean your grocery bags, and then disinfect them.
How to Wash Reusable Grocery Bags
Up first: let’s put on our gloves and get thosereusable grocery bagsclean!
The cleaning method really depends on the type of bag you have:
What are non-woven bags, exactly? They are made from non-woven polypropylene, which is a type of plastic that doesn’t hold up well when in the washer or dryer. Wash them by hand in warm soapy water and line dry.
Cotton Totes & Canvas Grocery Bags
Cotton and canvas reusable grocery bags are the easiest to clean! Throw them in the washer with detergent and hot water and you’re good to go. They’re even dryer-friendly.
Be especially thorough when cleaning insulated bags, as they are typically used to keep meat and dairy items cool on your way back from the grocery store. Wash by hand in warm soapy water, followed by ananti-bacterial wipe, taking extra care with the seams. Line dry.
The tip on how to clean nylon grocery bags is to hand wash in warm soapy water, turn inside out, and line dry.
How to Disinfect Grocery Bags
Disinfecting your reusable bags should always be your second and final step. Remember, washing is the key to cleaning the bags and disinfecting is how you remove the germs.
How to disinfect grocery bags is exactly how you would disinfect any object or surface:
- Put on your gloves.
- Take an antibacterial wipe to the bag.
- Get the bag wet enough to stay visibly wet for four minutes.
- Wipe off with a paper towel.
And, you’re done! You have now learned how to clean and disinfect reusable grocery bags, which is a safe practice to always use.
As an expert in hygiene and sanitation, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, I understand the critical importance of maintaining a clean and germ-free environment, especially when it comes to everyday items like reusable grocery bags. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in promoting effective cleaning and disinfection practices.
Let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article:
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Cleaning vs. Disinfecting: The article rightly emphasizes the crucial difference between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning involves the removal of germs, dirt, and grime from surfaces, and it can be achieved using soap or detergent and water. However, cleaning alone may not kill all germs. On the other hand, disinfecting involves using agents that kill germs on surfaces, reducing the risk of spreading infections. It's a two-step process: first, clean to remove physical impurities, and then disinfect to eliminate germs.
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Types of Reusable Grocery Bags and Cleaning Methods:
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Non-Woven Reusable Bags: These bags are made from non-woven polypropylene, a type of plastic. Due to their composition, they are not suitable for washing machines. The recommended method is to wash them by hand in warm soapy water and line dry.
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Cotton Totes & Canvas Grocery Bags: Cotton and canvas bags are easily washable. They can be cleaned by tossing them in the washing machine with detergent and hot water. Additionally, these bags are dryer-friendly.
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Insulated Bags: Given that insulated bags are often used for carrying perishable items, they require thorough cleaning. The suggested method involves hand washing in warm soapy water, followed by using an antibacterial wipe, paying extra attention to seams. Line drying is recommended.
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Polyester Reusable Bags: Cleaning nylon grocery bags involves hand washing in warm soapy water, turning them inside out, and line drying.
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Disinfecting Reusable Grocery Bags: Disinfecting is the final step after cleaning. The process involves wearing gloves, using an antibacterial wipe on the bag, ensuring it stays wet for at least four minutes, and then wiping it off with a paper towel. This step is crucial for eliminating any remaining germs and ensuring the bags are safe for future use.
By following these guidelines, individuals can effectively clean and disinfect their reusable grocery bags, contributing to a safer and healthier living environment during these challenging times.
