Health Canada recommends regularly cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces and others to limit the spread of COVID-19. To do this, the government agency advises using regular household cleaners according to label directions or diluted bleach. The suggested ratio is one teaspoon of bleach per cup (250 ml) of water or four teaspoons per litre (1,000 ml). This assumes the bleach is 5 per cent sodium hypochlorite, to give a 0.1 per cent sodium hypochlorite solution. Make sure not to use expired bleach and do not mix it with ammonia or any other cleanser.
The CDC also suggests that surfaces be cleaned using water with soap or detergent. Once the surface has been cleaned, it should be disinfected. Health Canada has compiled a list of disinfectants that meet its requirements for use against COVID-19. While these products don’t claim to kill the virus, they can certainly help limit its spread.
According to the CDC, alcohol solutions with at least 70 per cent alcohol can also be used as disinfectants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has compiled a list of approved household disinfectants believed to be effective against COVID-19. It is advised to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
Frequently touched objects that should be cleaned and disinfected include countertops, door handles, light switches, tables, keyboards, desks, toys, television remotes, electronics, phones, toilets, faucets and sinks.