Yes, you can use disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces against SARS-CoV-2 infections but not to clean. Cleaning and disinfecting mean different things. According to the CDC, cleaning entails the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces while disinfecting is the use of chemicals such as the EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces.
No doubt, cleaning of environment or surfaces is good and very important as it reduces the number of germs housed in your home but does not kill germs. So to kill germs and also lower the risk of spreading infections, you need to disinfect both hard and soft surfaces regularly.
Which disinfecting wipes should you use on surfaces against SAR-CoV-2
it’s one thing to say disinfect surfaces, it’s another thing to know the exact disinfectants or wipes to use. There are many disinfectants or disinfecting wipes out there with different production ingredients and germs targeted. The one you should use to disinfect against bacteria should be different from the one for viruses. Disinfectants or wipes that work against norovirus and rotavirus may be ineffective against coronavirus.
The appropriate solution for disinfecting surfaces is EPA registered disinfectants said the CDC. After buying the product, it is important you follow the instructions on the labels as they contain safe and effective steps of how to use the cleaning product including precautions you should take when applying the product, such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation while using of the product.
In case there is no manufacturer guidance on the label of the products, the CDC advises you consider the use of alcohol-based wipes or spray containing at least 70% alcohol to disinfect surfaces including touch screens. Using alcohol-based wipes on electronics surfaces requires thorough drying to avoid pooling of liquids.
EPA registered disinfectants
There are a good number of EPA registered disinfectants including wipes in the market that are easy and simple to use. They include
- Clorox Multi Surface Cleaner + Bleach
- Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
- Clorox Commercial Solutions® Clorox® Disinfecting Spray
- Lysol brand Heavy-Duty Cleaner Disinfectant Concentrate
- Lysol Disinfectant Max Cover Mist
- Lysol brand Clean & Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Purell Professional Surface Disinfectant Wipes
- Sani-Prime Germicidal Spray
The United States Environmental Protection Agency says “you can use any product of your choice against SAR-CoV-2 so long as it has EPA registration number on the label and that human coronavirus is mentioned as a target pathogen”.
Where can you buy disinfecting wipes or EPA registered disinfectants?
If there is no lockdown, you could get disinfecting wipes from local stores, pharmacies, supermarkets and even online. But right now that there is lockdown and many countries of the world are practicing social distancing the best and easiest place to buy disinfecting wipes is online. You can check on Amazon or other online stores for any disinfecting wipes of your choice.
How should you clean and disinfect surfaces
You can start by removing dust, dirt or debris with a cleaning spray or a wiping hand towel wet in water and soap mixture. Afterwards apply EPA registered surface disinfectant and dry or use disinfecting wipes( which is actually the quickest and easiest) or disinfectant spray
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What should you disinfect?
As a measure to contain the spread of COVID-19, the CDC advises you disinfect high-touch surfaces which could be soft or hard. Common areas or surfaces where hands visibly touch frequently should be paid attention to.
Know that the novel coronavirus can live and survive on surfaces such as cardboard or paper in general for 24hours and has a life span of two(48hours) to three(72hours) days on plastic and stainless steel. So target high contact surfaces when disinfecting. Surfaces to disinfect include; doorknobs, handrails, table surfaces, tap handles, hard dining chairs (seat, back, and arms), kitchen counters, cabinet handles, sinks, bathroom counters, faucets and faucet knobs, toilets seat and handle, light switches, remote controls for television set and other electronics, cell or mobile phones, flush handles, car steering wheel children toys ( wooden or plastic), computers and external accessories.
Tips to clean and disinfect household items effectively
Wear rubber gloves or disposable latex gloves and wash hands immediately you are done. If your choice of disinfectant is disposable wipes, use as many wipes as you can to ensure surfaces are visibly wet for at least five minutes before drying up.
Should You disinfect food and snacks?
It’s really not necessary to disinfect food and snacks. According to the FDA, there is no researched evidence yet that suggests food or food packaging can transmit the novel coronavirus. So just observe standard food safety measures and wash your hands afterward.
Should you disinfect packages and mail?
Research shows that viruses can live up-to 24hours on cardboard before dying, so it would be a great idea to disinfect mail and packages with disinfecting wipes or spray.
Other important rules of COVID-19 you must not ignore
- Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds each time (or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available).
- Stay at home and if you must go out make sure you have your clothe face mask and hand sanitizer with you,
- Wear a cloth face mask in public. (Here’s how to make a mask and the rules surrounding them.)
- Stay at least 6 feet away from other people in public (physical and social distancing is important)
Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Avoid touching your face.
ALSO READ:| 10 Myths About COVID-19 You Must Ignore If You Want To Live Longer
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