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Clorox CEO Warns Disinfectant Wipes Won't Be Fully Stocked Until 2021

Photo credit: Boston Globe - Getty Images
Photo credit: Boston Globe - Getty Images

From House Beautiful

From the start of self-isolation amid the coronavirus pandemic, increased demand for cleaning supplies has left shelves empty for months. And now consumers might not be able to stock up on Clorox's disinfectant wipes until next year, Clorox CEO Benno Dorer tells Reuters.

Though the California-based company usually sets aside an excess supply of disinfectants for the flu season, it's still struggling to meet a six-fold increase in demand. “Disinfecting wipes, which are the hottest commodity in the business right now, will probably take longer because it’s a very complex supply chain to make them,” Dorer said.

Many companies use a material called polyester spunlace to make disinfectant wipes, according to Reuters. But since it's also used to make other personal protective equipment (including masks and medical gowns) there's currently a limited supply of it.

In May, Dorer expected Clorox's disinfectant wipes to be restocked by summer. To keep up with the demand amid the pandemic, the company says it increased production by 40 percent and made new adjustments to expedite its production. Additionally, Clorox factories have been working 24 hours a day to make wipes.

While Clorox's other products are also understocked, supply for many of its products like liquid bleach will improve within the next four to six months, Reuters reports.

Frequently cleaning high-touch surfaces is still important amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. This Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guide details how to clean and disinfect your home.

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