Surfaces
If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a
detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol
solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household
disinfectants should be effective.
§ Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if
appropriate for the surface. 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.
Prepare a
bleach solution by mixing:
§ 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or
§ 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
§ 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.).
§ For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and
drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate
cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning:
§ If the items can be laundered, launder items in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions using the warmest appropriate water
setting for the items and then dry items completely.
§ Otherwise, use products with the EPA-approved emerging viral
pathogens claims that are suitable for porous surfaces
Linens, Clothing, and
Other Items That Go in the Laundry
Do not shake dirty laundry, this will minimize the
possibility of dispersing virus through the air. Wash items as appropriate in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest
appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Dirty laundry
that has been in contact with an ill person can be washed with other people’s
items. Clean and disinfect hampers or other carts for transporting
laundry according to guidance above for hard or soft surfaces.
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) and Hand Hygiene
Cleaning staff should wear disposable gloves and gowns for
all tasks in the cleaning process, including handling trash.
§ Gloves and gowns should be compatible with the disinfectant
products being used.
§ Additional PPE might be required based on the
cleaning/disinfectant products being used and whether there is a risk of
splash.
§ Gloves and gowns should be removed carefully to avoid
contamination of the wearer and the surrounding area. Be sure to clean hands
after removing gloves.
§ Gloves should be removed after cleaning a room or area
occupied by ill persons. Clean hands immediately after gloves are removed.
Cleaning staff should immediately report breaches in PPE
(e.g., tear in gloves) or any potential exposures to their supervisor. Cleaning staff and others should clean hands often,
including immediately after removing gloves and after contact with an ill
person, by washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water
are not available and hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based hand
sanitizer that contains 60%-95% alcohol may be used. However, if hands are
visibly dirty, always wash hands with soap and water. Follow normal preventive actions while at work and home,
including cleaning hands and avoiding touching eyes, nose, or mouth with
unwashed hands. Additional
key times to clean hands include:
§ After blowing one’s nose, coughing, or sneezing
§ After using the restroom
§ Before eating or preparing food
§ After contact with animals or pets
§ Before and after providing routine care for another person
who needs assistance (e.g., a child)
