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Health

We Asked An Expert: Should You Wipe Down Packages That Come In The Mail?

April 30, 2020 by Justine Schwartz
shefinds | Health
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With non-essential business closed during the global novel coronavirus pandemic, many of us are resorting to shopping online for everything from household cleaners to soft bras and toilet paper (if we can find it).

I will be the first to admit that the packages are piling up on my door step. But every time I receive a new one, I have the same inner dialogue: Should I leave it outside? Should I wipe it down with Lysol? Can COVID-19 live on cardboard surfaces?

house unit img
Women Are Swapping Their Boring Water For This Ice Pop Electrolyte Mix!
Amazon boxes stacked for delivery on a doorstep.

Even though I am practicing every CDC guideline, I still question the process every time.

If you're like me, an avid online shopping who just wants to know the answer, here's what the experts are saying. It's actually SO easy and straight forward!

COVID-19 mail delivery with safety precautions in place.

"If you receive deliveries spray them down with a disinfectant that's on the Environmental Protection Agency's List of Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2," infectious disease physician Dr. Jeanne Breen tells us.

Ah, yes--that's why you've seen products like Force of Nature spray sell out completely on Amazon! (Don't worry--it's still in stock on their website

Natural Multi-Purpose Cleaner

Force of Nature Starter Kit ($89.99) 

 

Force of Nature Natural Multi-Purpose Cleaner on Amazon. 

COVID-19 mail packaging highlighting essential items.

"Have your delivery personnel leave all deliveries outside," Dr. Breen tells us. "Spray packages with Force of Nature, removing and disposing of as much packaging as you can before bringing the contents inside."

That last steps? "Spray down your mailbox handle, doorknob and door handles and countertops daily and after handling deliveries," Dr. Breen says. And of course, wash your hands!

Author:

Editorial Director

Justine Schwartz is a veteran women's lifestyle editor; she's written extensively about style & beauty tips, health advice and wedding planning. Her work has appeared in New York Magazine, Huffington Post and New York Weddings. Justine has been with SheFinds since 2010; you can reach her via email at Justine@shefinds.com.

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Woman exercising outdoors for fitness.
Exhausted woman sipping coffee for a quick energy boost
Display of deli meats, sandwiches, and hot dog products.
Person enjoying a healthy lunch at a dining table.
Enjoying spearmint tea for potential skin benefits.
Frustrated older woman holding her head in distress.
Woman experiencing chest pain, highlighting health concerns.
Different types of bread displayed on a wooden table.
Woman holding her head, appearing stressed or in pain.
Woman experiencing joint pain while sitting on a couch.
Dunkin' Donuts, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks logos on display.
Woman adding sugar to a steaming cup of aromatic coffee.
Wooden board with bagels, blueberries, and butter arranged nicely.
Pouring vitamin D into palm for health.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil in kitchen setting.
Older woman taking supplements with water for wellness.
Top view of Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken.
Handful of dietary supplements for optimal nutrition.
Checking time on a watch while enjoying breakfast meal.
Close-up of supplement powder being poured into a glass.
Woman exercising outdoors for fitness.
Exhausted woman sipping coffee for a quick energy boost
Display of deli meats, sandwiches, and hot dog products.