Cleaning guidelines we follow to help prevent the spread of COVID-19
From Airbnb Updated Jun 4, 2020
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We’ve created the following cleaning checklist based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Keep a copy to refer to while cleaning, or provide one for your cleaning professional.
Cleaning guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19
Here are some guidelines to follow when cleaning your space between guests
What to clean and disinfect
General:
Doorknobs
Fans and lamp chains
Garbage and recycling bins
Hairdryers
Ironing boards and irons
Keys
Light switches
Railings
Remote controls
Tabletops
Thermostats
Window sills and window handles
Kitchen:
Appliances: coffee maker, oven, pressure cooker, toaster, etc.
Cabinet handles and pulls
Condiments: oil, salt and pepper shakers, commonly used spices and containers, etc.
Hard-backed chairs
Kitchenware that isn’t dishwasher safe: ceramic bowls, kids’ plasticware, etc.
Sinks
Bathroom:
Faucet handles
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap dispensers
Shower curtains and doors
Showers and tubs
Sinks
Toilets
Bedroom:
Hangers and luggage racks
Nightstands
Cleaning appliances:
Dishwashers
Vacuum cleaners
Washer/dryer units
1. Wear protective gear while you clean. Personal protective items like disposable gloves, aprons or gowns, and facial coverings (like homemade or purchased masks) can provide additional protection. Make sure to wash your hands immediately after removing gloves.
2. Ventilate rooms before you clean. The CDC recommends opening outside doors and windows and using ventilating fans to increase air circulation in the space before beginning to clean and sanitize. Learn more about how to properly ventilate before cleaning from the CDC.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after each cleaning. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds. If that’s not possible, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Learn more about proper hand washing
4. Clean, then sanitize. Use detergent or soap and water to remove dirt, grease, dust, and germs. Once the surface is clean, spray with a disinfectant. Let it stand for a few minutes, then wipe—and if you’re not using paper towels or disposable wipes, it’s best to use a new cleaning cloth for each guest.
5. Avoid touching your face while cleaning. To prevent the spread of germs, the CDC recommends not touching your face, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands—so pay extra attention when cleaning.
6. Use the right disinfectant. Most common household disinfectants registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as cleaning solutions with diluted household bleach or at least 70% alcohol, are believed to be effective against the coronavirus. Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, like light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, and faucet handles. (See our full list of surfaces to sanitize at the bottom of the page.)
7. Don’t forget about sofas, rugs, drapes, and other soft, porous surfaces. Carefully remove any visible dirt or grime, then clean with the appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. If possible, machine-wash items according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Wash all linens at the highest heat setting recommended by the manufacturer. That includes bed sheets, mattress covers, hand and bath towels, kitchen towels, and blankets. Remember to wear gloves when handling dirty laundry, and take care to avoid shaking laundry, which could increase the spread of germs.
9. Clean and sanitize laundry baskets and hampers. If possible, consider using a liner that is either disposable or that you can throw into the washing machine.
10. Empty the vacuum cleaner after every cleaning. You should wipe down the vacuum cleaner with disinfectant, along with appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine.
11. While restocking your supplies, take a moment to check expiration dates. And remember to never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleaning solution that can release toxic gases that are dangerous to inhale.
12. Line trash cans. Placing bags into trash bins will make it easier to dispose of tissues and other waste.
13. Dispose of or wash your cleaning supplies. If you’re using paper towels, disinfectant wipes, and other disposable cleaning supplies, take the trash out after you’re done. If you’re using cleaning cloths and other reusable products, make sure to machine-wash them at the highest heat setting appropriate for the material.
14. Safely remove any cleaning gear. When you’re done cleaning, immediately remove any protective outerwear like gowns, gloves, or masks, and dispose of them or wash accordingly. Remember to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds afterwards.
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Information contained in this article may have changed since publication.
*This content is based on publicly available information from the CDC. The CDC does not endorse this content or Airbnb. Airbnb makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to this content provided for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
