There are some things you can do around the house to help the person you are caring for stay healthy and be more comfortable.
Cleaning
- Try to clean and dust the house once a week. This is the best way to get rid of germs
- Be sure to clean the sinks, showers, toilets, and bathtubs often. Try to use the kinds of cleaning products that hospitals might use
- Bedpans should be cleaned with bleach after each use. Replace them once a month. If any body fluids (blood, urine, feces, vomit, semen, or vaginal fluid) get on furniture, clean the area with soap and water or cleanser
Doing laundry
You do not have to do anything special when washing clothes or bed sheets. Body fluids may get on clothes or sheets. When that happens, put on latex gloves and
place the soiled items in a plastic bag until you can wash them. Wash them in normal laundry detergent. You do not need bleach.
Avoid sharing personal items
To be safe, it is best if people with HIV do not share personal items that could have blood on them, such as:
- Razors
- Toothbrushes
- Tweezers
- Nail or cuticle clippers
- Piercing jewelry (earrings, tongue rings, navel rings, or eyebrow rings)
- Anything else that could have blood on it
Next >> Cooking and food safety for people living with HIV
