references
  
      The New England Journal of Medicine: "Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1"
    
      Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Cleaning and Disinfection for Households"
    
      Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home"
    
      Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "When and How to Wash Your Hands"
    
      ConsumerLab.com: "Does UV Light Kill Coronavirus & Germs and What Are the Best UV Sterilizer Devices?"
    
      U.S. EPA: "List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2"
    
      Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html"

Is this an emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.

There's really no need to disinfect your house daily unless someone under your roof is sick.

Image Credit: Hispanolistic/E+/GettyImages

Image Credit: Hispanolistic/E+/GettyImages

Quick note: The term “cleaning” means removing germs from surfaces, while “disinfecting” means using chemicals to kill germs, per the CDC.

Image Credit: PredragImages/iStock/GettyImages

Image Credit: PredragImages/iStock/GettyImages

According to the CDC, “high-touch surfaces” include:

Tables Doorknobs Light switches Countertops Handles Desks Phones Keyboards Toilets Faucets Sinks

  • Tables
  • Doorknobs
  • Light switches
  • Countertops
  • Handles
  • Desks
  • Phones
  • Keyboards
  • Toilets
  • Faucets
  • Sinks

When using bleach, make sure it’s intended for disinfection (check the label) and hasn’t passed its expiration date. Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.

Always wear gloves when using chemical cleaners and never ingest them. If you accidentally ingest any amount, call Poison Control at (800) 222-1222 immediately for help.

The best way to avoid germs is to wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often.

Image Credit: Moyo Studio/E+/GettyImages

Image Credit: Moyo Studio/E+/GettyImages

Read more stories to help you navigate the novel coronavirus pandemic:

The Step-by-Step Guide to Leaving and Returning Home During Social Distancing 8 Myths About Spreading and Catching Germs You Need to Know 3 Ways to Avoid Germs on Mail and Deliveries

  • The Step-by-Step Guide to Leaving and Returning Home During Social Distancing

  • 8 Myths About Spreading and Catching Germs You Need to Know

  • 3 Ways to Avoid Germs on Mail and Deliveries

       The New England Journal of Medicine: "Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1"
    
       Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Cleaning and Disinfection for Households"
    
       Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home"
    
       Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "When and How to Wash Your Hands"
    
       ConsumerLab.com: "Does UV Light Kill Coronavirus & Germs and What Are the Best UV Sterilizer Devices?"
    
       U.S. EPA: "List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2"
    
       Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html"