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How to sanitize mail/packages (envelope/package surfaces): Step-by-Step

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Easily sanitize mail and packages with E-Cloth. Simple, effective cleaning for envelope and package surfaces—no harsh chemicals needed.

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How to sanitize mail/packages (envelope/package surfaces): Step-by-Step

Tools:

E-Cloth
Disinfectant wipes
Spray bottle with at least 70% alcohol
Disposable gloves
Soap and water

Gather Your Supplies

Have disinfectant wipes or a spray bottle with at least 70% alcohol ready.
Keep disposable gloves on hand if you want to avoid direct contact.

Wipe Down the Package/Envelope

For paper-based mail and envelopes, gently wipe both sides with a disinfectant wipe.
For packages and non-porous surfaces, lightly spray the area with the alcohol solution and use a clean cloth to gently wipe it down.
Avoid over-wetting paper items to prevent damage.

Allow to Air Dry

Let the disinfected surfaces air dry completely; this ensures the sanitizer does its job effectively.

Clean Up

If you used gloves, dispose of them properly and wash your hands.
If not using gloves, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling the mail or package.

Precautions:

Wear Personal Protective Gear

Always use disposable gloves when handling mail or packages to minimize direct skin contact.

Isolate Items Before Handling

If possible, leave new mail or packages untouched for a short period to let any viruses settle before sanitizing the surfaces.

Use Approved Disinfectants

Ensure you’re using disinfectant solutions approved for non-porous surfaces; check manufacturer recommendations.

Avoid Excessive Moisture

Do not oversaturate envelopes or packages; light cleaning is sufficient to avoid damage.

Handle with Caution

Minimize shaking or tossing the items to prevent the spread of contaminants.

Practice Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after handling and sanitizing mail or packages.

Maintain Adequate Ventilation

Disinfect in a well-ventilated area to reduce inhalation of chemical fumes and to help surfaces dry properly.

How to Correctly Sanitize The Mail/packages (envelope/package surfaces): Extra Tips

Wipe Down Deliveries Immediately

Use disinfectant wipes or a cloth dampened with a solution of at least 70% isopropyl alcohol to quickly clean the exterior surfaces of envelopes and packages.
Focus on areas that are frequently handled such as flaps, handles, and seams.
Aim to sanitize soon after receiving to reduce potential contamination.

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Use EPA-Approved Disinfectants

Select cleaning products that are approved by the EPA for effectiveness against viruses.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label regarding contact time and proper application.
This ensures that the sanitizer works correctly on the surfaces of your mail and packages.

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Let Packages Sit Unpacked

If possible, allow non-perishable items to sit undisturbed for a few hours before opening.
This extra time can help reduce the viability of any viruses present on the surface.
Consider setting aside a designated space for incoming deliveries that you can clean regularly.

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Wash and Sanitize Hands After Handling

Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds immediately after handling delivered items.
If soap and water aren’t available, use a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol as a backup.
This step minimizes the risk of transferring any contaminants from the package surfaces to your face or other surfaces.

Common Mistakes When Sanitizing Mail/packages (envelope/package surfaces)

Not Allowing Mail to Air Dry

Issue: Handling mail before it’s dry can transfer moisture and disinfectant to your hands or other surfaces.
Tip: Place sanitized mail on a clean, dry surface and wait for it to air dry completely before handling again.
Result: Prevents cross-contamination and protects the integrity of the mail.

Ignoring High-Touch Areas Beyond the Envelope

Issue: Focusing only on the outside of mail and packages can leave unseen contamination on inside contents, such as the letter or slip.
Tip: If necessary, quickly wipe or allow contents to sit untouched for a set period before handling.
Result: Reduces potential germ transfer when handling documents or contents inside the mail.

Reusing Dirty Cleaning Materials

Issue: Using the same cloth, wipe, or gloves for multiple items can spread germs rather than remove them.
Tip: Use disposable materials or sanitize cleaning tools between uses to ensure each package is cleaned with a fresh surface.
Result: Minimizes contamination and keeps your mail handling process truly hygienic.

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How Often to Sanitize Mail/packages (envelope/package surfaces)

Sanitize on Daily Receipt

Daily Application: Treat every new piece of mail or package like a potential wild card—sanitize it as soon as you bring it in. This daily, immediate-action approach is the simplest way to keep unwanted hitchhikers from spreading in your home.
Rationale: Since delivery items travel through various hands and environments, their surfaces could pick up contaminants. A quick sanitize upon arrival minimizes any risk of transferring germs from the outside world to your living space.

Additional Considerations

Household Risk Factors: If someone in your household is immunocompromised or particularly vulnerable, consider sanitizing mail and packages every time they cycle through the door. Your attention to cleanliness is a frontline defense in these scenarios.
Repeated Handling: For areas like community mailrooms or shared package drop-offs, where items might be handled by multiple people before reaching you, maintain that immediate-sanitize-upon-receipt habit consistently to blunt any potential hazards.
Alternative Strategy: If you can’t sanitize immediately, set aside incoming items in a designated area for at least 24 hours. This wait can naturally decrease the viability of many pathogens, offering a backup layer of safety.

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