Microban's Sanitizing Spray Can Kill COVID-19 Virus on Surfaces In Just 60 Seconds
The Environmental Protection Agency has added Microban 24 Sanitizing Spray to its list of effective sanitizers proven to kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus fueling the COVID-19 pandemic.
Laboratory tests revealed the spray can kill virus particles in 60 seconds, and the spray can also disinfect hard surfaces in five minutes.
The fast-acting spray is available via resellers on Amazon and eBay, but you may also find it in one of these following local retailers.
Some of the links in this article may be temporarily unavailable due to shortages from the COVID-19 outbreak. We will keep this article updated with links as products become available.
If we've learned anything in 2020, it's that truly disinfecting a surface requires a close eye and some patience — after all, wipes and aerosols may need to be left wet on surfaces for up to 10 minutes in order to kill all those germs. But some products work to disinfect faster: For those who are constantly cleaning these days to fight COVID-19 risks during the pandemic, one in particular can neutralize the virus on surfaces in just 60 seconds. Procter and Gamble's Microban 24 Sanitizing Spray has just earned a stamp of approval from the Environmental Protection Agency for its ability to kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that leads to a COVID-19 diagnosis, in one minute in laboratory tests. You'll find the full details of Microban's approval on the EPA's List N, under listing 4091-20.
What's more? The handy spray product also holds a Good Housekeeping Seal for its ability to entirely disinfect non-porous surfaces in just 5 minutes, providing additional sanitation for 24 hours (even with repeated touching!). According to a press release from Procter & Gamble, the Microban 24 spray was first released in February, and the 24-hour "bacteria shield technology" is a unique feature for a disinfectant. While the spray can indeed kill bacteria and viruses through a full disinfection on hard, non-porous surfaces, it also can be used on soft surfaces, including fabrics, for everyday sanitizing (a much different process!).
The spray provides a 24-hour "shield" for other germs and bacteria simply upon application: After cleaning the surface and any dirt, "simply spray the product and allow it to air dry on the surface with no wiping — just spray and walk away," explains Kevin Wenzel, a brand vice president for North America surface care category at Procter and Gamble. You can sanitize a hard surface simply by applying the spray, allowing it to sit for at least 10 seconds, and wiping away with a clean, damp cloth. If you're hoping to use Microban's spray to rid your surfaces of any potential SARS-CoV-2 virus particles or droplets, however, you'll need to wet the surface and keep it wet for at least 60 seconds (even if you have to reapply!) while it air dries, Wenzel tells Good Housekeeping.
It's best to review the product's full label before first use in your home. But if you're looking to fully disinfect surfaces of all bacteria, viruses, and fungi, here's how you'll use Microban's product, according to the manufacturer:
Preclean your surface to ensure any visible crud or grime is removed. You can do so using soap and water.
Hold the container at least 6 inches away from the surface in question, and spray until wet.
Keep the surface wet for a full 5 minutes. You may reapply the spray if you notice its drying earlier than the 5-minute mark.
Wipe the surface thoroughly using a clean cloth to finish the process.
Where to buy Microban 24 Sanitizing Spray:
By now, you've noticed that getting your hands on cleaning supplies can be an issue as shortages are continuing to plague stores across the nation. Microban's 24 Sanitizing Spray is available online from third party sellers on sites like Amazon and eBay, but many traditional retailers are unable to ship the product due to demand. "We are producing it around the clock, adding new production facilities and working hard to further increase capacity, Wenzel says, adding that the brand is restocking local stores and online retailers over the holiday season. "It's a highly dynamic situation and we have daily calls with our production team to ensure we are doing everything we can."
Some sellers online may mark up the price for a single can of the spray due to demand. But you may also be able to find this particular Microban spray locally, as many are seemingly prioritizing in-store supplies rather than online sales. Try using the product locator tools provided by these retailers to find a bottle of Microban 24 Sanitizing Spray at a store in your area:
As always, you don't need a spray or a wipe to disinfect your surfaces — bleach can do the job all on its own, especially if you're in a pinch. You'll find directions for creating a DIY bleach-based disinfectant from our Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Products Lab below.
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