Transmission of COVID-19 is most likely between people who are near each other. Keeping your home clean is one of the most important things you can do to prevent community spread.
What cleaning products kill coronavirus?
Because this coronavirus has a lipid envelope, any cleaner that’s designed to destroy fats is going to be highly effective at killing any viruses in your home or workplace.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a list of antimicrobial products that are suitable for use against SARS-CoV-2. These include:
- Clorox Multi-Surface Cleaner + Bleach
- Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
- Lysol Heavy-Duty Cleaner Disinfectant Concentrate
- Lysol Disinfectant Max Cover Mist
- Lysol Clean & Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Purell Professional Surface Disinfectant Wipes
- Sani-Prime Germicidal Spray
You don’t have to use any of these detergents more often or for longer than recommended on the label. Although none has yet been tested on this strain of coronavirus, they are all tested to kill more robust organisms and should be able to take out any viral cells lurking around your home.
If you don’t have any of these brand cleaners on hand, you can still effectively clean your home using household cleaners. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that “diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70 percent alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective at preventing COVID-19 infections.”
How to disinfect surfaces against coronavirus
- Put on a pair of disposable gloves
- Clean any visibly dirty surfaces using detergent or soap and water
- Make a bleach solution by adding 5 tablespoons (⅓ cup) of bleach to one-gallon water
- Wash down surfaces using the bleach solution
- Rinse surfaces with clean water and dry thoroughly using a microfiber cloth or paper towels
- Dispose of the cloths, paper towels and gloves used for cleaning
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water
How to clean soft surfaces to kill coronavirus
Although SARS-CoV-2 is unlikely to survive long on soft surfaces, it’s a good idea to maintain a thorough cleaning routine during the outbreak to minimize the risk of transmission. The CDC recommends cleaning porous surfaces such as carpets, curtains, and clothes using appropriate cleaning solutions according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Many detergents are designed to work effectively on lipids and will be suitable for breaking down the virus that causes COVID-19.
- Use water that’s as warm as possible for the materials you are cleaning.
- Be sure you completely dry all items.
- Clean your washing machine after using it to clean any items that might have been contaminated.
