Forgotten areas to disinfect against coronaviruses and other germs

The discovery of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 has many people rushing to disinfect their homes and offices.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces as a way to prevent diseases from spreading.

Many of those high-touch items are well known – doorknobs, light switches and cell phones.

However, there are many objects people may not think of. Here is a list of surfaces you may want to add to your cleaning routine or to be sure to wash your hands after touching.

Home

• The soap dispenser in the bathroom
• Toothbrush holder and toothpaste tube
• The knobs and handles on the kitchen cabinets and drawers
• The handles of the refrigerator and freezer
• The handle of the water pitcher
• The buttons and handles on the coffee pot
• The buttons and handles on the microwave, stove and dishwasher
• The knobs and handles on the washer and dryer
• Garage door buttons
• Keys and keyring
• Tablet and home office items (e.g., buttons on printer)
• Your purse or bag
• Wearable device (e.g., fitness tracker)

Work

• Keyboard and mouse
• Work ID badge
• The candy dish
• Conference room phones and video equipment
• Buttons on printers and other equipment
• Water cooler handles
• Vending machines

Public

• Soap dispensers
• Gas pump handles and buttons
• ATM and store checkout pads or screens
• Elevator buttons

How to clean and disinfect

Overall, the CDC recommends the following steps to clean and disinfect hard surfaces:

1. Wear disposable gloves.
2. If the surface is dirty, use a soap or detergent and water to first remove the grime.
3. Disinfect the item or area using a solution such as one of the following:
   1. Bleach diluted with water (about 4 teaspoons per quart of water).
   2. Rubbing alcohol of 70% or higher -- either full strength or diluted with water.
   3. EPA-registered household disinfectant -- follow the manufacturer's label on diluting and use. Note:  you might need to leave the disinfectant on the surface for several minutes.

For soft surfaces such as carpet or rugs, remove visible dirt and spray with a cleaner appropriate for the material. 

For clothing, linens, towels, etc., launder according to the instructions on the label in the warmest water setting possible. 

For your cell phone, tablet or other high-touch devices, check your manufacturer instructions. In general, many recommend using disinfectant wipes or a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with a solution of diluted alcohol (about 5 ounces water to 3 ounces alcohol). Avoid getting moisture in the openings. 

Source:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/home/cleaning-disinfection.html