Clean & Disinfect

Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

#1 CLEAN

• • If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.

  • After the surface is clean, then disinfect the surface.

#2 DISINFECT

• • Diluting your household bleach.

  • To make a bleach solution, mix: 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water OR 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water.

    • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.

    • Contact times for different uses

      • Disinfection by wiping of nonporous surfaces: a contact time of ≥ 10 minutes is recommended.

      • Disinfection by immersion of items: a contact time of 30 minutes is recommended.

  • Alcohol solutions.

  • Ensure solution has at least 70% alcohol.

  • Other common EPA-registered household disinfectants.

  • Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens claims are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).