Does Clorox Laundry Sanitizer Kill Norovirus?
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. With its ability to spread rapidly in crowded places such as schools, hospitals, and cruise ships, it is crucial to understand how to effectively eliminate this virus. One common question that arises is whether Clorox laundry sanitizer can kill norovirus. In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of Clorox laundry sanitizer in combating norovirus.
Clorox laundry sanitizer is a powerful disinfectant that is designed to kill a wide range of germs, including bacteria and viruses. However, the effectiveness of Clorox laundry sanitizer against norovirus is a topic of interest for many. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus is highly resistant to disinfectants, making it challenging to eliminate the virus completely.
Understanding the Resistance of Norovirus
Norovirus is known for its resilience, as it can survive in various environments, including on surfaces and in water. The virus has an outer shell that protects it from many disinfectants, making it difficult to kill. While Clorox laundry sanitizer is effective against many viruses, including influenza and hepatitis A, its efficacy against norovirus is limited.
Clorox Laundry Sanitizer’s Limitations
Clorox laundry sanitizer contains a high concentration of bleach, which is a powerful disinfectant. However, the concentration of bleach in Clorox laundry sanitizer is not sufficient to kill norovirus. The virus requires a higher concentration of bleach to be effectively eliminated. Therefore, relying solely on Clorox laundry sanitizer to kill norovirus may not be sufficient.
Alternative Disinfection Methods
To effectively eliminate norovirus, it is essential to use a combination of disinfection methods. Here are some alternative approaches that can be used in conjunction with Clorox laundry sanitizer:
1. High-temperature washing: Washing clothes and linens at a temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) can help kill norovirus. If the temperature is lower, it is recommended to use a hot water setting and a laundry sanitizer that is specifically designed to kill norovirus.
2. Bleach: Using a bleach solution can help eliminate norovirus. Mix one tablespoon of bleach with one gallon of water and soak the contaminated items for at least one minute before washing.
3. Steam sterilization: Steam sterilization is an effective method for killing norovirus. Use a steam cleaner or a steam sterilization device to ensure that all contaminated items are properly disinfected.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Clorox laundry sanitizer is a powerful disinfectant, it is not effective in killing norovirus. To eliminate this highly contagious virus, it is crucial to use a combination of disinfection methods, including high-temperature washing, bleach solutions, and steam sterilization. By implementing these strategies, you can help prevent the spread of norovirus and protect yourself and others from its harmful effects.
