Update: 5/12/21 - We now know there is only a 1 in 10,000 chance of transmission of COVID-19 from contaminated surfaces. The CDC has provided this new information and the original recommendations.

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Recently, we’ve received a number of requests about the best way to clean touch screens and multitouch tables. We’ve put together some guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting without damage to the display or base.

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Please note that these recommendations are for Ideum touch tables and multitouch displays; the products and methods described here may not be safe for other makes and models. This is particularly true for touch devices that may not have glass surfaces and powder-coated aluminum frames like those used in our systems. For example, if you are looking for information about cleaning iPads, iPhones, and other Apple products, Apple has their own recommendations.

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With that said, we are attempting to make the procedures described here as general as possible, since some types of cleaners may not be available in all areas. Also, we are relying on a variety of government sources and medical experts. We are providing links to those primary sources in this article.

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The Basics

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The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that “diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective" for disinfecting surfaces and preventing the spread of coronavirus. Please see the CDC guidelines about cleaning and disinfecting for Covid-19.

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In addition, according to the Journal of Hospital Infection, disinfectants containing a solution of ethanol (62-71% alcohol), hydrogen peroxide (0.5% hydrogen peroxide), or sodium hypochlorite (0.1% bleach) can kill the virus in only one minute.

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Products We Recommend

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Ideum’s touch surfaces are tempered glass, and the edges of the displays are held in a frame of powder-coated aluminum, so they are very durable. However, it is important to follow these directions carefully to avoid damage to the product. Also, because our Pano touch table uses a different touch technology than our other products, Pano owners should contact our support group for more information about cleaning the table.

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The following disinfectants meet CDC criteria and can be used on Ideum touch tables: Professional Lysol Disinfectant Spray, Clorox Commercial Solutions Disinfecting Wipes, and Peroxide Disinfectant and Glass Cleaner by Ecolab. The US EPA provides an expanded list of disinfectants on their website. We recommend avoiding cleaners that might be abrasive or that contain a high concentration of ammonia.

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Cleaning Process

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After shutting down and unplugging the device, we suggest spraying the surface with a fine but thorough cleaner mist. Do not soak the screen or allow moisture to get into any of the openings on the table. Leave the cleaner mist on the surface for one minute, and then wipe it off with a microfiber cloth or soft paper towel. Do not use abrasive cloths or cleaners, and try to avoid excessive wiping of the display surface.

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If approved and effective, all-in-one glass cleaners and disinfectants are preferable to using first a cleaner and then a separate disinfectant product. However, if you cannot find an all-in-one disinfectant and glass cleaner, you can spray a non-corrosive disinfectant, such as Lysol or ethanol (with at least 70% alcohol), on the display for one minute, then wipe it off with a microfiber cloth or paper towel. Then clean the surface with standard glass cleaner as you normally would to care for the product. This process will also remove any residue from the original application of the disinfectant.

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If you are unable to use any of the products described above, be sure to test a different cleaner on a piece of glass and on a very small area of the table’s metal base to ensure that it will not discolor.

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If You Have Questions

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You can contact Ideum Support directly at 505.792.1110 ext 2 or support@ideum.com, Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM Mountain Time. Also, it is worth noting that our supply chain is intact and we are still filling orders for our touch tables and Presenter touch displays. If you are interested in learning more about our products, you can contact our Sales Group directly at 505.792.1110 ext 1 Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM Mountain Time.