Monthly News and Updates from IdahoSTARS

Label reading is imperative during the COVID-19 pandemic

Not all bleach is the same , read the list of active ingredients before deciding to purchase the bleach for disinfecting purposes. It's important to have sodium hypochlorite identified on the label with at least 5.25% to ensure it's EPA registered. This means it is effective against SARS- CoV- 2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Unfortunately, with limited supplies available in some areas, child care staff are unknowingly purchasing “splash-less” bleach or bleach concentrations without at least 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. Do NOT use splash-less bleach.
According to the CDC, for hand-sanitizer to be effective, it must contain at least 60% alcohol to be effective against unwanted viruses and other microorganisms. Additionally, it is always recommend to wash with soap and water, using hand-sanitizer after or if soap and water is not readily available. **Since alcohol based sanitizers have potential to be toxic if ingested, the use of it, is highly discouraged on children under 2 years of age.
Some bleach alternatives have been identified by the EPA as effective against the virus that causes COVID-19, human coronavirus. If you are using or are considering using a bleach alternative, please review the EPA list N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS- CoV- 2 or talk with a child care health consultant to help identify if your product is useful in disinfecting during this pandemic.