What Are the Best Cleaning Practices for Coronavirus?

Editor’s Note: As the impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) is fluid, information in this article was correct at the time of posting and may be out of date at the time you are reading it. For the most up-to-date guidance on coronavirus, please visit PARealtors.org/coronavirus.

Realtors® and homeowners need to consider the best methods for protecting their homes and families during the coronavirus pandemic.

The American Chemistry Council released a list of the disinfectant products that are recommended for use against coronavirus. Once you have adequate supplies in hand, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention published a how-to cleaning guide. The American Cleaning Institute also offers a number of tips for cleaning. First, don’t forget to target frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.

If you are doing a deeper clean, the CDC recommends wearing disposable gloves while cleaning and disinfecting and discarding the gloves after. To disinfect, diluted solutions with household bleach, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective, according to the CDC. You can prepare a bleach solution by mixing one-third of a cup of bleach per gallon of water, or four teaspoons per quarter of water. For rugs, drapes and other soft surfaces, clean by the directions on the material and launder (if approved) in the warmest water allowed for the garment.

The virus can land on clothing, though it is unknown how long it will survive. It’s recommended to clean clothing immediately after returning home, and also sanitize your laundry area and laundry baskets.

Don’t forget to continue to wash your hands and sanitize frequently.

And as professionals use their phones frequently, remember to clean and disinfect your phone.

Keep checking PAR’s website for updated information regarding COVID-19.