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The agency has also advised against homemade disinfectants.

While the threat of COVID-19 is still relatively low for United States citizens, public health officials have been promoting vigilant behavior in the public in order to prevent the virus from spreading further. One thing they recommend is frequent sterilization and cleaning of living spaces.

Because certain disinfectants and cleaning supplies are not as effective in this process as others, the Environmental Protection Agency has stepped up to offer advice. The EPA compiled a listof commercially-available disinfectants that can be used to sterilize a surface and prevent COVID-19 from taking root. Many of these products fall under common household brands such as Lysol and Clorox, and include things like disinfectant spray, toilet cleaners, and multi-surface cleaners. According to the EPA, each product on the list has been tested and approved against viruses that are even more persistent than COVID-19.

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In addition to the list, the EPA has also advised consumers to refrain from attempting to create their own disinfectants and sanitizers. Household items that are commonly used as sanitizers like vinegar and alcohol have not been tested by the EPA, so their efficiency cannot be guaranteed. For hand sanitizers, the EPA recommends store-bought products with an alcohol content of at least 60%; any lower than that, and they may not be effective.

The EPA has also stressed the importance of washing your hands in order to prevent the spread of microbes in your home. They recommend frequent hand-washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and to avoid touching your face.