Alexei Volkov
The COVID-19 virus can live on different surfaces for an extended period, but it is sensitive to high temperatures. Research shows that SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, can be killed when exposed to high temperatures of 65°C (149°F) or higher for longer than 3 minutes. However, these temperatures are higher than most residential hot water or washing machine settings. To disinfect plastic items, warm water, soap, and a microfiber cloth can be used. While the summer heat may reduce the virus's viability, it is not solely reliable, as countries in their summer seasons have still experienced increases in COVID-19 cases.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of heat on plastic with COVID-19 | Heat is an effective method to kill COVID-19 on plastic. However, the effectiveness depends on the duration of exposure and the temperature. Temperatures of 65°C (149°F) or higher for 3 minutes or more are required to kill the virus. Lower temperatures, such as between 50°C and 55°C (122°F and 131°F), require longer exposure times of 20 minutes or more. |
| Cleaning methods for clear plastic | Warm water, dish soap, and a microfiber cloth are recommended for cleaning clear plastic. Plastic cleaners, such as NOVUS or Brillanize, can be used to remove water spots or streaks. Bleach diluted with water can also be used, but it may damage the plastic over time. |
| Impact of summer heat | There is conflicting evidence regarding the impact of summer heat on COVID-19. Some sources suggest that the virus may be less active during warmer seasons, while others indicate that countries experiencing summer are still witnessing increases in COVID-19 cases. |
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What You'll Learn
High temperatures of 65°C (149°F) for 3+ minutes
The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, is sensitive to high temperatures. Research has shown that it can be killed when exposed to high temperatures of 65°C (149°F) for at least 3 minutes.
To put this into context, these temperatures are higher than those used in a washing machine or dryer, and higher than many recommended cooking temperatures. However, the combination of detergent products and heat can effectively eliminate SARS-CoV-2 on fabrics, so washing machines can still be used to disinfect clothing.
It's important to note that the time it takes to kill the virus depends on the amount of virus present and the type of surface it's on. For example, lower temperatures of 50-55°C (122-131°F) can be used to kill the virus, but the exposure time needs to be increased to 20 minutes.
When it comes to disinfecting clear plastic surfaces, warm water, dish soap, and a microfiber cloth are recommended as a simple and gentle method that won't damage the plastic. Bleach can also be used, but it should be diluted with water to protect the plastic from damage.
While high temperatures can be effective in killing the virus, it's important to note that exposing yourself to high temperatures will not prevent COVID-19. The virus is primarily spread through person-to-person contact, and while contact with contaminated surfaces may contribute to the spread, this has not been thoroughly documented. Additionally, researchers have found that countries in their summer seasons are still experiencing increases in COVID-19 cases, indicating that warmer temperatures alone may not be sufficient to stop the spread of the virus.
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Warmer temperatures and humidity outdoors
However, it is important to note that these temperatures are much higher than typical residential hot water temperatures or those used in washing machines and dryers. While lower temperatures between 50°C and 55°C (122°F to 131°F) can also be effective, longer exposure times of 20 minutes or more are required.
The impact of warmer temperatures outdoors on the virus depends on various factors, including the amount of virus present and the type of surface it is on. While direct sunlight and UV rays can help to reduce the virus's viability, the specific effects of UVA and UVB radiation, which are less intense than UVC, on coronaviruses are still unknown.
Preliminary data suggests that the coronavirus has a "sweet spot" between 41°C and 52°C, but this has not been thoroughly tested. Additionally, countries experiencing summer seasons during the pandemic have still seen increases in COVID-19 cases, indicating that warmer temperatures alone may not be sufficient to prevent the spread of the virus.
Therefore, while warmer temperatures and humidity outdoors can contribute to reducing the viability of the COVID-19 virus, it is important to continue following public health guidelines, such as social distancing, proper ventilation, and regular handwashing, to effectively prevent the spread of the virus.
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Using soap and water
The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, is sensitive to high temperatures. Research shows that it can be killed when exposed to high temperatures of 65°C (149°F) or higher for at least 3 minutes. However, these temperatures are often higher than residential hot water or washing machine settings.
For this reason, it is important to use soap and water to clean surfaces and fabrics that may be contaminated with COVID-19. Soap and water can effectively clean both soft, porous surfaces, such as carpets and rugs, and hard non-porous surfaces, such as kitchen counters and metal toys.
To clean soft, porous surfaces, first clean the surface with soap and water, and then launder the item at the warmest setting recommended in the washing instructions. If the item cannot be laundered, you can use an alcohol-based wipe or spray with at least 70% alcohol to disinfect the surface.
For hard non-porous surfaces, the CDC recommends cleaning dirty surfaces with soap and water before disinfecting. You can use a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water, or diluted household bleach solutions, for this purpose. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for contact time and ventilation when using bleach.
It is important to note that no single disinfectant or sanitizer will kill all microorganisms. Therefore, it is essential to combine heat with detergent products to effectively eliminate SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces and fabrics.
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Disinfecting with 70% ethanol
Ethanol is a highly effective disinfectant against most common viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. When using ethanol for disinfection, a concentration of 70% is recommended. This concentration is considered ideal for several reasons:
Firstly, 70% ethanol is less flammable compared to higher concentrations. This is because 70% ethanol is mixed with 30% water, reducing the risk of toxic fumes or combustion. Secondly, 70% ethanol solutions produce fewer vapours and odours, making them more pleasant to use. Additionally, 70% ethanol solutions have a slower evaporation rate, increasing the contact time with the surface being disinfected, which is crucial for effective disinfection.
While 70% ethanol is highly effective against SARS-CoV-2, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for all surfaces. For example, ethanol can degrade certain types of plastics, display surfaces, and enamels. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution and refer to the manufacturer's instructions before using ethanol on sensitive surfaces.
When using 70% ethanol for disinfection, it is recommended to wear gloves to protect your hands. After completing the disinfection process, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly. Additionally, it is important to never mix bleach with ethanol as it can release dangerous gases that may damage your lungs.
Overall, 70% ethanol is a powerful and effective disinfectant against SARS-CoV-2 and other common viruses. When used correctly, it can help keep surfaces safe and reduce the risk of virus transmission.
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Heat and detergent products in laundry
The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, is sensitive to high temperatures. Research suggests that exposing the virus to a temperature of 65°C (149°F) or higher for at least 3 minutes will almost completely kill it. For temperatures lower than 65°C (149°F), a longer exposure time is needed. For example, temperatures between 50 and 55°C (122 to 131°F) for 20 minutes should be enough to kill the virus.
While your washer and dryer may not reach 70°C (158°F), the combination of heat and detergent products can work together to effectively eliminate SARS-CoV-2 on fabrics. To wash potentially contaminated fabrics, including cloth face coverings, use the warmest water setting that is suitable for the fabrics you are washing. Soap is an effective product to remove germs on a surface. When cleaning clear plastic, warm water, dish soap, and a microfiber cloth can be used to effectively disinfect the surface. This method is suitable for acrylic, polycarbonate, or PETG sheets.
It is important to note that the temperatures mentioned above are warmer than residential hot water or the temperatures used in a washing machine or dryer. However, the time it takes to completely kill the virus can depend on the amount of virus present and the type of surface it is on.
Although heat can be effective in killing the virus, it is important to note that exposing yourself to high temperatures is not a reliable method of preventing COVID-19. Preliminary data suggests that the coronavirus has a "sweet spot" between 41 and 52 degrees Celsius, but this has not been thoroughly tested. Additionally, while the summer heat may reduce the spread of the virus, it will not completely stop it. Countries experiencing summer seasons have still seen increases in COVID-19 cases.
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Frequently asked questions
Heat can kill Covid on plastic, but the temperature and duration of exposure must be adequate. Research suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 virus is almost completely eradicated after being exposed to temperatures of 65°C (149°F) or higher for at least 3 minutes.
Warm water, dish soap, and a microfiber cloth are effective and gentle for cleaning and disinfecting plastic surfaces. Soap is an excellent product for removing germs, and microfiber cloths help prevent scratches on the surface.
Yes, household glass cleaners containing ammonia should be avoided as they can damage plastic over time. Additionally, aggressive chemicals such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide can also damage the material.
While some believe that summer heat kills the Covid-19 virus, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine's report to the White House states that the definitive answer is still unknown. Countries experiencing summer seasons are still witnessing increases in Covid-19 cases.
