How to safely clean a building after a rodent infestation

The single most important rule is: never sweep or vacuum dry. Both motions aerosolize dust and virus particles that you can inhale. CDC guidance recommends a wet protocol throughout. 1. Ventilate the space for at least 30 minutes before entering. Open windows and doors. Stay outside during this time. 2. Put on rubber, latex, or vinyl gloves. Use a fitted N95/FFP2 respirator if available, especially in enclosed spaces with heavy contamination. 3. Prepare disinfectant: a 1:10 solution of household bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercial disinfectant labeled effective against viruses. 4. Spray droppings, urine, and nesting material thoroughly until soaked. Wait at least 5 minutes. 5. Pick up the soaked material with paper towels and place it in a sealed plastic bag. Double-bag and dispose with regular trash. 6. Disinfect the entire area — floors, countertops, baseboards — with the same solution. 7. Wash any potentially contaminated bedding, fabrics, and clothing with hot water and detergent. 8. Remove gloves and respirator carefully without touching the outside surfaces. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. For dead rodents: spray with disinfectant, wait 5 minutes, place in two bags, dispose. For traps: disinfect before reuse. If the infestation is large or in occupational settings (warehouses, agricultural buildings), consult professional pest-control services with appropriate respiratory protection.