My Beach House Rentals’ ENHANCED CLEANING ROUTINE:
Cleanliness has always been at the top of our mind for our guests. But it’s even more critical as we all aim to reduce the spread of infection by taking additional steps to reduce this spread. We have revisited our cleaning routine to make sure we are doing all we can to protect our guests. Due to the coronavirus, we are taking extra care to disinfect frequently touched surfaces between reservations.
We are following the guidelines based on insight and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
My Ocean Villa (right on the beach with best ocean breeze and view) and My Island Cottage (5 bedrooms) is great for a staycation, as a work-from-home alternative, or for families. We've noticed that some people need a little more room (that’s Island Cottage), and many are searching for spaces where they can be alone (My Ocean Villa) or with family. Both Island Cottage and My Ocean Villa are work and family-friendly with fast wifi, comfortable workspaces and are suitable for children.
Due to travel restrictions, many of our guests may be considering longer stays that are closer to home so please ask for available discounts on monthly rentals.
The difference between disinfecting and cleaning
When it comes to preventing the spread of germs, it helps to understand the difference between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning is the act of removing germs, dirt, and impurities (like when you use a soapy sponge to wipe off a visibly dirty counter or stovetop). Disinfecting is when you use chemicals to kill germs (like spraying with a bleach solution). By cleaning first, then disinfecting, you can lower the risk of infection.
Cleaning guidelines
Here are some guidelines we follow when cleaning your space between guests. Our cleaning professionals have been instructed to use this list, too.
1. Wear protective gear while you clean. Personal protective items like disposable gloves, aprons or gowns, and facial coverings (like homemade or purchased masks) can provide additional protection. Make sure to wash your hands immediately after removing gloves.
2. Ventilate rooms before you clean. The CDC recommends opening outside doors and windows and using ventilating fans to increase air circulation in the space before beginning to clean and disinfect. Learn more about how to properly ventilate before cleaning from the CDC.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after each cleaning. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds. If that’s not possible, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Learn more about proper hand washing
4. Clean, then disinfect. Use detergent or soap and water to remove dirt, grease, dust, and germs. Once the surface is clean, spray with a disinfectant. Let it stand for a few minutes, then wipe—and if you’re not using paper towels or disposable wipes, it’s best to use a new cleaning cloth for each guest.
5. Avoid touching your face while cleaning. To prevent the spread of germs, the CDC recommends not touching your face, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands - so pay extra attention when cleaning.
6. Use the right disinfectant.Most common household disinfectants registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as cleaning solutions with diluted household bleach or at least 70% alcohol, are believed to be effective against the coronavirus. Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, like light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, and faucet handles. (See our full list of surfaces to disinfect at the bottom of the page.)
7. Don’t forget about sofas, rugs, drapes, and other soft, porous surfaces. Carefully remove any visible dirt or grime, then clean with the appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. If possible, machine-wash items according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Wash all linens at the highest heat setting recommended by the manufacturer. That includes bed sheets, mattress covers, hand and bath towels, kitchen towels, and blankets. Remember to wear gloves when handling dirty laundry, and take care to avoid shaking laundry, which could increase the spread of germs.
9. Clean and disinfect laundry baskets and hampers. If possible, consider using a liner that is either disposable or that you can throw into the washing machine.
10. Empty the vacuum cleaner after every cleaning. You should wipe down the vacuum cleaner with disinfectant, along with appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine.
11. While restocking your supplies, take a moment to check expiration dates. And remember to never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleaning solution that can release toxic gases that are dangerous to inhale.
12. Line trash cans. Placing bags into trash bins will make it easier to dispose of tissues and other waste.
13. Dispose of or wash your cleaning supplies. If you’re using paper towels, disinfectant wipes, and other disposable cleaning supplies, take the trash out after you’re done. If you’re using cleaning cloths and other reusable products, make sure to machine-wash them at the highest heat setting appropriate for the material.
14. Safely remove any cleaning gear. When you’re done cleaning, immediately remove any protective outerwear like gowns, gloves, or masks, and dispose of them or wash accordingly. Remember to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds afterwards.
Helping guests protect themselves
Like you, many guests will want to take extra steps to reduce their risk of infection. You can help encourage social distancing by offering self check-in and checkout. Consider installing a key lockbox or smart lock with a keypad, and remember to update your listing to add self check-in instructions. You can also minimize person-to-person contact by avoiding routine maintenance during your guest’s stay.
To help our guests maintain the highest standard of cleanliness and hygiene, we make sure your space is stocked with start-up supplies including the essential amenities
- Hand soap, laundry detergent and dish soap
- Paper towels
- Tissues
- Toilet Paper
You will have plenty of extra towels and sheets, especially for our guests who are staying for more than a few days. We encourage our guests to clean up after themselves by leaving disinfectants and other cleaning supplies for them.
Our Checklist of items to clean and disinfect:
General:
- Doorknobs
- Surfaces
- Light switches
- Remote controls
- Tables
- Fan and lamp chains
- Window sills and window handles
- Thermostats
- Keys
- Hairdryers
- Railings
- Ironing boards and irons
- Garbage and recycling bins
Bedroom
- Hangers and luggage racks
- Nightstands
Cleaning appliances:
- Dishwashers
- Vacuum cleaners
- Washer/dryer units
Kids’ items:
- Toys
- Portable cribs and playpens
- High chairs
Kitchen:
- Sinks
- Cabinet handles and pulls
- Appliances: oven, toaster, pressure cooker, coffee maker, etc.
- Condiments: oil, salt and pepper shakers, commonly used spices and containers, etc.
- Kitchenware that isn’t dishwasher safe: ceramic bowls, kids’ plasticware, etc.
- Hard-backed chairs
Bathroom:
- Sinks
- Toilets
- Faucet handles
- Showers and tubs
- Shower curtains and doors
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap dispensers
Other amenities:
- Bikes
- Umbrellas
- Games
- Books