How to Clean and Disinfect Homes
HOW TO CLEAN AND DISINFECT HOMES
Cleaning and Disinfection Considerations for Households :
- Cleaning and Disinfection for Households (CDC Website)
- Six Steps for Safe and Effective Disinfectant Use
- Cleaning And Disinfecting Your Home (Fact Sheet) (4/18/20)
- COVID-19 Bleach or Alcohol as a Disinfectant
Clean
- Wear disposable gloves to clean and disinfect.
- Clean surfaces using soap and water.
- Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. High touch surfaces include:
- Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.
Disinfect
- Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if it is dirty. Then, use a household disinfectant.
- Recommend use of EPA-registered household disinfectant icon.
- Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product.
- Many products recommend:
- Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label)
- Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.
- Complete Disinfection Guidance
If Cleaning Wipes and Sprays Are Not Available
- Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface.
- Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Some bleaches, such as those designed for safe use on colored clothing or for whitening may not be suitable for disinfection.
- Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute.
- To make a bleach solution, mix:
- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
- OR
- 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
- Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol may also be used.