How to Clean and Disinfect Furniture Grade PVC
Furniture Grade PVC is a non-porous plastic, which makes it easy to clean and disinfect. It has long been used in medical and healthcare furniture because biological material cannot penetrate the material itself.
Below you will find simple steps for routine cleaning and disinfection, along with trusted references for further reading.
Why PVC is easy to sanitize
- Non-porous surface that wipes clean
- Resistant to moisture and most household cleaners
- Widely used in medical and healthcare environments
Step 1: General cleaning
Use a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap, or a non-abrasive household cleaner. Wipe all exterior PVC pipe and fitting surfaces. For high-touch assemblies, you may also clean interior sockets and pipe ends in the same manner. Rinse if needed and dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Disinfection
Per CDC guidance, disinfect after cleaning to maximize effectiveness. Apply a household spray disinfectant (for example, Lysol or Pine-Sol) or use disinfecting wipes. Follow the product label for contact time and safety instructions.
Notes on virus persistence studies
During earlier coronavirus outbreaks, studies observed survival of virus on common plastics for limited time frames. One non-peer-reviewed NIH-hosted paper from 2011 reported up to two days on certain plastics like ABS, PLA, and PET. Findings and conditions vary by material and environment; always prioritize current public health guidance.
References
- K. H. Chan, The Effects of Temperature and Relative Humidity on the Viability of the SARS Coronavirus, 2011
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection Recommendations, 2020
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace professional medical or public health advice. Always follow the directions on cleaning and disinfecting products.
