The New Normal

It’s hard to know what the “new normal” will look like, when we finally emerge from isolation and start to resume regularly scheduled activities. But while the uncertainties of the past year show no sign of abating, many of us do have a clear idea of what will help us feel more comfortable out in the wild. A recent survey commissioned by Clorox found that six out of 10 Canadians asked said they’d be more confident going outside if they had a disinfecting wipe or spray with them, naming public bathrooms, door handles and elevator buttons as their main concerns. Enter Clorox On-The-Go Disinfecting Wipes, which are bleach-free, kill 99.99% of bacteria and viruses and come in an easy-to-stash size—which means, yes, they fit perfectly in the fanny packs popularized during the pandemic. Read on for more ideas on how we can get back to normal, as three influencers share their own approach to venturing out safely.

LIFESTYLE INFLUENCER JESSICA SGUIGNA, @JESSUNDECIDED

What activities are helping you feel a sense of normalcy this spring?

“I’m preparing for our first baby coming in early June, so rather than feeling ‘normal’ it’s more exciting and new. I’m focusing on nesting at home and we try to get everything delivered to us directly, and if it’s not possible we do curbside pickup with very limited (to zero) human contact. If there is any chance of contact with high touch hard surfaces, I do have my Clorox On-The-Go disinfecting wipes ready with me always.”

Being an expectant mom, how are you looking at cleaning differently?

“I have definitely stocked up on a lot more disinfectants than I did before to make sure that we give the house a big cleaning overhaul before the baby arrives and to make sure we’re doing better cleans regularly.”

What outdoor activities are you looking forward to doing with your expanded family?

“We would love to go on a bunch of hikes this summer with the baby if the trails are open. We also would love to have an outdoor gathering for a baby meet-and-greet since we weren’t able to have a baby shower.”

When you do go out, what items do you always carry with you?

“I always have my phone, epipen, wallet, sanitizer, mask, and Clorox On-The-Go Disinfecting Wipes in my bag.”

Sometimes it’s the small things we miss the most. What’s something you can’t wait to do when it’s safe?

“I used to see my parents every week. I would just love to be able to see my parents on a regular basis again!”

HEALTH AUTHOR AND PHARMACIST SHERRY TORKOS, @SHERRYTORKOS

What activities are helping you feel a sense of normalcy this spring?

“With my son doing school online and me working from home, I feel it’s important that we take time away from our computers to get exercise and fresh air. Our eyes need a break from the screen, our bodies need the movement. Spending time together, exercising and being outdoors helps us feel better and sleep better.”

When you do go out, what items do you always carry with you?

“I always carry extra masks with me, hand sanitizer and Clorox On-The-Go Disinfecting Wipes to use on shopping carts or any other high-touch hard surfaces that I may encounter. I like to be prepared. Although grocery stores and other essential businesses are disinfecting commonly touched hard surfaces, I don’t like to rely on it.”

Given the results of Clorox’s survey, what would you like people to know about disinfecting?