The new novel coronavirus is, of course, related to the average human coronavirus but it’s not the same one you’re seeing listed on the back of Clorox bottles. As we move through this outbreak we here in the US are becoming more and more concerned with keeping bacteria/germs at bay.
While things like Lysol and Clorox might still be effective against the new novel coronavirus, there is not dead set proof of such. This because there has simply not been any real testing done. Just because the back might say human coronavirus does not mean that the makers are talking about the same thing as what we’re facing right now. This ‘new’ type of coronavirus is not the same thing as the average human coronavirus.
Disinfectants might be effective but at the moment, we really are not sure. However, the CDC is pointing towards one household product in specific that they are claiming to be quite effective in keeping the novel coronavirus at bay. That product being bleach.
When it comes to disinfecting surfaces the CDC wrote as follows:
If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.
Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
5 tablespoons 1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water.
Now, while the CDC does note that the EPA-approved disinfectants may be effective, it does not say that they ‘for sure’ are. However, it is important to note that homemade sanitizers are probably not going to be enough to do the trick due to the nature of the disease itself. While your homemade sanitizers might be able to get rid of germs from some viruses and other things of the sort only the things listed by the EPA have properly demonstrated before that they are truly effective against more common ‘harder-to-kill’ viruses/sicknesses overall.
While it is possible that vinegar and other things of the sort could be effective on some level, those more natural alternatives have not been reviewed by the EPA. For information on how to properly clean and disinfect different surfaces please check out the video below.