Homes and businesses
Infectious disease cleanup and disinfection
After a serious illness in a home, an outbreak at a business or a death from an infection, some people want the space professionally cleaned and disinfected. Here is what that should involve.
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What the sources say
Cleaning and disinfecting are different
Two steps
Cleaning removes most germs, dirt and impurities. Disinfecting kills most germs left on surfaces. Clean first, then disinfect.
Source: CDC
The right product for the germ
The EPA keeps separate lists of registered disinfectants for different germs, such as norovirus, C. difficile and the bloodborne viruses.
Source: EPA
Follow the label
Read and follow the directions on the disinfectant's label, including how long the surface must stay wet.
Source: CDC
Questions
What to ask the company
- Which disinfectant will you use, and is it registered for this germ?
- Which surfaces and rooms are included?
- What will you remove rather than clean, such as bedding or soft furnishings?
- How long should people stay out afterwards?
If a doctor or the health department has given you instructions, share them with the company.
Other situations
Something else happened?
- Crime scene cleanupAfter a homicide, assault or other violent crime, once police release the scene.
- Unattended death cleanupWhen someone died at home and was not found for some time.
- Suicide cleanupQuiet, careful cleanup so the family does not have to do it.
- Blood and bodily fluid cleanupAfter an injury, a fall or a medical emergency at home or at work.
- Hoarding with biohazardsHomes where waste, sharps or spoiled food make clearing unsafe.
- Vehicle biohazard cleanupBlood or bodily fluids in a car, truck or van.