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Covid 19 - Reopen your Office

How to clean and disinfect

 

 Wear disposable gloves to clean and disinfect.


Clean
 

  • Clean surfaces using soap and water. Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces.

 
       High touch surfaces include:
       Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.

 

Disinfect
 

  • Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if it is dirty. Then, use disinfectant.

  • Recommend use of EPA-registered household disinfectantexternal icon.
    Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product.
    Many products recommend:

    • Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label)

    • Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.

  • Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface.

    • Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Some bleaches, such as those designed for safe use on colored clothing or for whitening may not be suitable for disinfection.

    • Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
      Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
      Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute.

      To make a bleach solution, mix:

    • 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
      OR

    • 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water

  • Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol may also be used.

 

Soft surfaces
 

For soft surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes

  • Clean the surface using soap and water or with cleaners appropriate for use on these surfaces.

  • Launder items (if possible) according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.

    OR

  • Disinfect with an EPA-registered household disinfectant. These disinfectants meet EPA’s criteria for use against COVID-19.

​

Electronics
 

For electronics, such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines

  • Consider putting a wipeable cover on electronics.

  • Follow manufacturer’s instruction for cleaning and dinfecting.
    If no guidance, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. Dry surface thoroughly.


Laundry


For clothing, towels, linens and other items

  • Launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.

  • Wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry from a person who is sick.

  • Dirty laundry from a person who is sick can be washed with other people’s items.

  • Do not shake dirty laundry.

  • Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance above for surfaces.

  • Remove gloves, and wash hands right away.
     

Cleaning and disinfecting your building or facility if someone is sick

 

  • Close off areas used by the person who is sick.

  • Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. Wait 24 hours before you clean or disinfect. If 24 hours is not feasible, wait as long as possible.

 

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