Studies have evaluated the persistence of the coronavirus on different surfaces. One study found that the coronavirus stays alive for up to 1 day on clothing and wood, 2 days on glass, 4 days on stainless steel and plastic, and up to 7 days on the outer layer of a face mask.

The COVID-19 virus also survives in a wide range of pH values and ambient temperatures, but is susceptible to heat and standard disinfection methods.

For this reason the importance of adequate cleaning and disinfection process. Cleaning helps to remove pathogens or significantly reduce the load on contaminated surfaces and is an essential first step in any disinfection process. Cleaning with water, soap (or a neutral detergent), and some form of mechanical action (brushing) removes and reduces dirt, debris, and other organic material, but does not kill microorganisms.

Organic matter can prevent direct contact of a disinfectant with the surface and inactivate the germicidal properties or mode of action of many disinfectants. In addition to the methodology used, the disinfectant concentration and contact time are also critical for effective surface disinfection. That is why a chemical disinfectant, such as chlorine or alcohol, should be applied after cleaning to eliminate any remaining microorganisms.