Can I use common household substances to kill the novel coronavirus?

EPA does not review effectiveness of common household ingredients like vinegar or rubbing alcohol, so EPA cannot verify how well they work to kill the novel coronavirus. EPA reviews and registers antimicrobial pesticides, which include surface disinfectant products for use on pathogens like SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) website for more information about how to protect yourself.

Return to Frequent Questions about Disinfectants and Coronavirus (COVID-19).

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