How to Disinfect Different Surfaces Around the House

Coronavirus lives longer on some surfaces than others. Learn which products effectively kill the virus and when and where to use them.

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

You’re social and physical distancing. You’re wearing a mask properly. And you’ve got the 20-second hand-washing method perfected. Now, how can you protect yourself and family members from COVID-19 in your very own home?

How long does COVID-19 live on surfaces?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports the coronavirus can live on surfaces for multiple hours to multiple days depending on what type of material it is.

Porous and non-porous surface examples:

• Aerosols — to 2 hours
• Copper — up to 4 hours
• Cardboard — up to 24 hours
• Plastic and stainless steel — up to 2 or 3 days

How to properly disinfect your home

First, there’s a crucial difference between cleaning and disinfecting. Furthermore, when combined, cleaning and disinfecting work together as a 2-step protocol to kill the virus on most surfaces.

Here’s how the Center for Disease Control defines cleaning and disinfecting.

• Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.
• Disinfecting refers to using chemicals, such as EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

How to clean and disinfect hard (non-porous) surfaces

1. Clean dirty surfaces first with soap and water or detergent.
2. Disinfect with an alcohol-based solution. You can find a list of EPA-approved disinfectants that help kill coronavirus here. Bleach may be appropriate for household surfaces such as bathroom sinks and toilets — just check the label for accurate instructions on solution strength and proper handling.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Always be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Two of the most important parts of the cleaning process are

1. to be sure you use enough disinfectant to wet the surface, and
2. leave the product on that surface as long as it is called for in the directions. This ensures you’ve used enough disinfectant and given it adequate time to kill any viruses that may have been living on that surface.

Daily cleaning is recommended for common areas

If it’s a highly trafficked area — any space used on a daily basis — wipe it down often. That means everything from tables, desks, and countertops to hardback chairs, sinks, and toilets.

Don’t forget: Light switches, door handles, cabinet handles and knobs.

How to clean soft (porous) surfaces

For soft surfaces such as carpets, rugs, drapes, and upholstered furniture, reach for soap and water or an EPA-registered household disinfectant to remove visible spots that could be contaminated.

After spot cleaning, launder using the warmest water possible (be cautious not to burn yourself) to help fight the virus.

Before cleaning furniture, check to see if there’s a manufacturer tag. You may have to hunt for it, but most upholstered sofas and chairs have cleaning instructions from the manufacturer stitched into their frame or cushions.

Handy decoding tip: If the furniture manufacturer cleaning instructions include an “S”, you can use an alcohol-based solution. (If not, stick to mild soap and water)

If you’re concerned about impacting the quality of your textiles, see this EPA-approved list of disinfects appropriate for porous surfaces.

How to wipe down electronics

Step 1: Use alcohol-based wipes or sprays.

Step 2: Dry each device thoroughly.

Think broader than your smartphone and laptop. How often do you reach the TV remote, click the mouse, or touch a screen?

Electronics to keep clean:

• Laptops
• Computer mouses
• Tablets
• Phones
• Gaming systems
• Remote controls

How to rid COVID-19 from your clothing

The CDC recommends wearing disposable gloves when handling clothing or textiles that may have been contaminated by an ill person (be sure to dispose of them after use).

Wash laundry on the warmest setting deemed appropriate by the tag from the clothing manufacturer. Then dry clothing completely, as instructed on the article’s tag.

Try not to shake the clothing before closing it in the washing machine.

And, if you’re able — disinfect your laundry basket following guidelines for porous and non-porous surfaces, depending on the construction.

Lastly and most importantly

Always wash your hands, even after you’ve finished cleaning and disinfecting the items in your home.

Stay safe!

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