Safe Cleaning

image of vacuuming, garbage disposal and cleaning sink

Routine cleaning removes dirt from surfaces, keeps pests away, reduces allergens like dust and dander, and stops the spread of germs that cause illness. Use a disinfectant to kill germs after cleaning on the highest risk areas, such as where food is prepared and in bathrooms, especially if someone is ill.

Tips for Safe Cleaning

Carefully read and follow product label instructions before use.

  • Don't use more product than recommended.
  • Never mix products. It can create toxic gases.
  • Follow directions to sanitize food preparation surfaces, especially after preparing raw meat, poultry, fish or eggs.

Products can be harmful if they are inhaled, touched, or swallowed.

  • Wear gloves and any other personal protective equipment recommended on the product label.
  • Bring in fresh air from the outdoors.
  • Use and store products away from children and pets.

Never ingest products and act immediately in case of poisioning.

  • Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.
  • Call 911 for emergency medical help if someone stops breathing, collapses, or has a seizure.

Cleaning at Home

  • Clean surfaces thoroughly using soap or detergent and water before using disinfectants. Dirt and other materials on surfaces can reduce the effectiveness of disinfectants.
  • Apply a disinfectant after cleaning surfaces to kill viruses, bacteria, and germs.
  • Look for the product label registration number to make sure this product is approved for use by the EPA.
  • Carefully follow all instructions on the label.
  • Pay attention to the contact time: how long a disinfectant must stay on the surface to be effective. This can vary based on the product and it applies to disinfecting wipes, too.
  • A fresh household bleach solution can be used to disinfect and sanitize surfaces by following the label instructions.

Soft Surfaces and Laundry

  • Vacuum soft surfaces, carpets, and rugs to remove visible dirt; then clean or spot clean as indicated on fabric label or instructions.
  • Wash and dry laundry at the temperature recommended for the fabric using detergent as recommended on the product label.

Bring in Fresh Air

  • Open the windows or doors to the outside, if possible.
  • Open the outdoor air intake or vent of your window air conditioner when in operation.
  • Use fans if they are vented to the outdoors.

Use and Store Products Safely

  • Do not mix products. Mixing these can produce toxic fumes that are harmful to health.
  • Carefully follow all label instructions to ensure effective use
  • Use the right amount of water with concentrated products. Applying more product than required does not yield better results and can be harmful.
  • Wear gloves and any protection identified on the product label.
  • Dispose of unused and unwanted products properly.
  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after cleaning and disinfecting.
  • Keep products in their original containers and close them securely after use.
  • Keep Kids Away
  • Store and use products away from children and pets.
  • Always supervise your children when using hand sanitizers.

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