In general, disinfectants control a wide range of pathogens that are or could be a problem on hard, porous and/or nonporous surfaces. These pathogens may include Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli (commonly known as E. coli), and even some strains of the flu. Some pathogens are known problems; some are not likely to be an issue; and others are emerging and therefore have been unavailable to study. In the midst of the novel coronavirus pandemic, we are turning to disinfectants for help, but how do we know if they are effective?