When cleaning and disinfecting a public space, workplace, business, school or even your home, you have to put together a plan. Cleaning with soap and water removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces while disinfecting actually kills the germs on surfaces. Cleaning lowers the risk of spreading infection, but disinfecting can even further lower that risk. Once you have a plan in place, you must implement then maintain and revise.

Develop Your Plan

• Determine what needs to be cleaned
• Determine how areas will be disinfected
• Consider the resources and equipment needed

Consider the type of surface and how often the surface is touched. Prioritize disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and be mindful of the availability of products needed and PPE.

Implement the Plan

• Clean visibly dirty surfaces with soap and water prior to disinfection
• Use the appropriate cleaning or disinfecting product
• Always follow the directions on the label

Maintain and Revise the Plan

• Continue routine cleaning and disinfection
• Maintain safe practices
• Continue practices that reduce the potential for exposure

Continue to revise and improve upon your plan based on the appropriate disinfectant and PPE availability. Frequently wash your hands, use cloth face coverings and stay home while you are sick.

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Content Source: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention