Do Disinfecting Wipes Kill the Coronavirus?

Here’s how to wipe out those germs the right way

The coronavirus has sparked people’s interest in disinfecting products. In our battle to beat this pandemic into submission, we’re buying germ-killing products, including disinfecting wipes, like they’re going out of style.

But you can’t just buy disinfecting wipes, swipe them on everything and expect your home to be coronavirus-free. You’ll want to make sure the wipes you buy can actually kill viruses and germs. You’ll also want to ensure that you’re using them the right way.

How to use disinfecting wipes the right way

Disinfecting wipes contain chemicals, so they have safety steps to follow. Use them as directed to make sure those unwelcome germs are gone for good.

• Check for EPA approval. Look at the fine print on the package. EPA-approved products have a long EPA registration number on them.
• Read the directions and warnings. With all the different disinfectants out there, it helps to know what you’re working with. In most cases, you need to wear gloves to protect your skin. The directions also tell you what to do if you accidentally get some of the cleaning solution in your eyes.
• Remove visible gunk or dirt first. Use a rag with soap and water or paper towels. You may want your gloves for this step.
• Scrub with the wipe and let the disinfectant do its job. The entire surface should be wet with the disinfectant. But keep in mind that the solution needs time to work. The directions should indicate the “contact time, which is the amount of time that you should leave the disinfectant on the surface without drying or rinsing it. Don’t touch it until that contact time is up.
• Toss disposable gloves or wash reusable ones. Wash your hands with soap and water after removing them.
•  Put the wipes away. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Are disinfecting wipes safe?

If you follow the steps above, they are. But stick with one product. Mixing two different household cleaners — even so-called natural cleaners — can create toxic fumes. These fumes can cause:

• Wheezing.
• Coughing.
• Trouble breathing.
• Eye, nose, throat and lung irritation.
• Nausea.
• Pneumonia.

If you’re exposed to cleaning fumes from mixing chemicals, get everyone out of the house.

Cleaning is good, but it’s not a cure-all

The coronavirus has made us hyperaware of germs. Go ahead and wipe your household surfaces with EPA-approved disinfecting wipes. But cleaning alone can’t keep the coronavirus away.

Read full article HERE

Source: Cleveland Clinic