The CDC has guidelines on how to sanitize against the Coronavirus. We put the highlights in this post so you know how to do it at home and in your office.
RELATED: Benefits of Using Professional Office Cleaning Services
Cleaning products that kill the virus: List N
To see if your cleaning solution kills the Coronavirus, view this extensive list of products by the EPA.
Here’s a shortlist of cleaning products that will kill the Coronavirus:
- Diluted household bleach. Unexpired household bleach containing 5.25%–8.25% sodium hypochlorite will kill the virus. Prepare a solution by mixing 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) of bleach per gallon of room temperature water.
- Alcohol. Solutions with at least 70% alcohol can be used.
- Pine Sol. If used according to the directions.
- Lysol can kill the Coronavirus is left on the surface for two or more minutes.
In addition to chemicals, the coronavirus only lasts on surfaces for hours to days. Heat and sunlight kill the virus faster.
Hard (Non-porous) Surfaces
There’s a different procedure for cleaning hard surfaces over soft surfaces (below). Outlined are the simple directions to killing the virus on hard, non-porous surfaces.
- Wear gloves. Disposable gloves should be worn while disinfecting against the Coronavirus and discarded once sanitation is complete.
- Use soap and water if the surface is soiled before disinfecting.
- Use proper products. Only use products that are proven to kill the Coronavirus (listed above).
- Let the cleaning product sit on surface. This is a very important part of the disinfecting process. Wiping it before this time may not ensure the disinfecting of the surface.
- Ensure proper ventilation during and after application.
- Wash hands immediately after disinfecting for at least 20 seconds with warm water.
NOTE: Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. This can cause harmful fumes.
Soft (Porous) Surfaces
Soft surfaces include carpet, rugs, and drapes that cannot go into the laundry. Clean the area with soap and water if it’s visibly soiled. Next, disinfect the porous surface with approved disinfecting chemicals. Lysol, as an example, can kill the virus if left to sit on the service for two minutes.
Electronics
Similar to hard surfaces, using alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol will clean electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, touch screens, remote controls, and keyboards. If devices are used a lot by many people, then consider wrapping them in wipeable electronic covers. Avoid pooling liquids as this can be harmful to electronics and become a breeding ground for the Coronavirus.
Items that can go in the laundry
Disposable gloves should be worn when handling infected linens. Keep linens in a plastic bag until it’s time to be cleaned. Refrain from shaking infected laundry to mitigate the spreading which can be ingested, thus infecting someone nearby. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items. Wash clothes or linens according to the manufacturer’s guidelines with the appropriate detergent at the warmest setting possible. Let dry completely in the dryer or by hanging.
Tips for staying healthy against the Coronavirus
- Clean and wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cough or sneeze in your bent elbow.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Wear a face mask.
- Allow six-feet distance from others.
- Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily.
- Dedicate a bedroom and bathroom for an ill person. If a separate bedroom and bathroom aren’t available, then it should be cleaned and disinfected after each use by an ill person.
AMS Janitorial: Your commercial cleaning experts
AMS Janitorial is San Francisco and San Jose’s best commercial janitorial company for cleaning office common areas, bathrooms, and windows. Review our list of services including power washing, carpet cleaning, and deep sanitizing techniques against COVID-19. AMS Janitorial are your experts for all your disinfecting and sanitizing needs in the Bay Area. See servicing areas and inquire today.
