Ever since the pandemic, we have been cautious and regularly sanitizing and disinfecting our places. From wiping down our groceries, doorknobs and even hesitating to touch elevator buttons, cleaning became a ritual. Cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting and sterilizing, we started using these terms in our daily life. However, these terms might sound similar, but each has a different meaning.
Let’s take a look at what sanitizing and disinfecting means. Understanding the difference makes your cleaning more effective and safer.
What is Disinfecting?
Disinfecting is the process of killing or inactivating germs, especially viruses, bacteria, and fungi. It is approved by EPA, that can destroy harmful microorganisms that can cause infections or spread illness. Disinfectants are chemical agents (like bleach, alcohol solutions, or hydrogen peroxide-based products) that are strong enough to kill pathogens. They’re commonly used on surfaces like doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, countertops, switches, and shared electronics.
Disinfecting is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of viruses. However, disinfectants are often strong chemical agents, so it’s important to check if the product is food-safe before using it on surfaces that come in contact with food.
When to Disinfect
Disinfecting is the most effective way to kill the germs. Usually used when there’s a higher risk of exposure to bacteria or viruses. This is especially important when dealing with bodily fluids, illness, or public spaces. Disinfectants are chemicals so don’t use them on food. You can use it on:
- When someone in the house is sick or recovering
- After changing diapers or cleaning up vomit
- In bathrooms, especially the toilet, sink, and floor
- On doorknobs, handles, and switchboards during flu season
- After having guests over or returning from travel
What is Sanitizing?
Sanitizing is the process of reducing the number of germs on a surface to a safe level, as defined by public health standards. Unlike disinfecting, sanitizing just reduces the number of germs on the surface you touch. Sanitizers are usually milder than disinfectants and work faster. They’re commonly used in places like kitchens, restaurants, schools, and daycares, especially on surfaces that come in contact with food or skin. However, always check the label before using it.
When to Sanitize
It is crucial to understand when to sanitize. Sanitizing is a faster approach to reducing germs to a safe level. It is usually used on surfaces that don’t come into contact with dangerous germs but still need to be kept clean. These are usually food-contact surfaces or high-touch areas in homes, schools, or restaurants. For example:
- After wiping down kitchen counters before cooking
- Cleaning dining tables and cutting boards
- Toys, remotes, and light switches that are used daily
- Grocery bags, fruits, and vegetables
How to Sanitize and Disinfect Properly
The first rule of sanitizing or disinfecting a surface is to clean it properly. Clean surfaces allow chemicals to work properly. Use soap and water to wipe down the area and remove any visible dirt. Then you can either sanitize or disinfect according to your needs. The EPA sets strict standards when it comes to cleaning products. Disinfectants are required to kill 99.999 percent of germs, while sanitizers must eliminate 99.9 percent. At first glance, 0.099 percent might not seem like much, but when it comes to stopping the spread of infection, the difference matters. That’s why it’s important to buy from a website that sells approved cleaning products and understands your specific needs.
How to Disinfect
Disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched and exposed to many people. The more hands that come in contact with a surface, the higher the risk of germs spreading from it. Use disinfectants in the bathroom, doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, or areas exposed to someone who is ill. Therefore, schools, hospitals, and cafeterias should be disinfected regularly.
- Use an EPA-approved disinfectant or any cleaner that clearly says it kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
- After cleaning the surface, spray or wipe the disinfectant directly onto it.
- Let it sit for the full contact time mentioned on the label, which is usually 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t rush this step. If you wipe it off too soon, it won’t work.
- Leave it to air dry, unless the product says to wipe it down.
- Wear gloves and open a window if the product has strong fumes.
How to Sanitize
Sanitizing can be done after a basic cleaning. It is recommended for surfaces that don’t need heavy-duty disinfecting but still require a reduction in germs to safe levels. For instance, kitchen counters, dining tables, children’s toys, or gym equipment. This will control the spread of germs.
- Use a product labeled as a sanitizer or make a safe solution by mixing 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid bleach in 1 gallon of water (for hard surfaces).
- Spray or wipe the sanitizer over the surface.
- Let it sit for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the product instructions.
- Allow it to dry. If you’re sanitizing a food-contact surface, rinse it with clean water afterward unless the label says it’s no-rinse.
Points to Remember
- Sanitize the surfaces that are regularly used but not exposed to a lot of germs, like kitchen counters, dining tables, remote controls, and children’s toys. Sanitizing reduces bacteria to safe levels.
- Disinfect high-touch areas where the risk of infection is higher. This includes doorknobs, toilet handles, switches, phones, and elevator buttons. These are the places many people touch.
- Use food-safe sanitizers on surfaces where you handle or prepare food. Always check the label to make sure it’s approved for kitchen use.
- Avoid over-disinfecting. Using harsh chemicals too often can damage surfaces and may irritate your skin or lungs.
- Always clean before you sanitize or disinfect. Dirt, grease, or grime can reduce the effectiveness of any cleaning.
- Match your method to the level of exposure. The more hands or traffic an area sees, the stronger your cleaning process should be.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference helps you to understand what to use when. Use the right product with the right method to maximize the effectiveness of your cleaning. Whether you’re cleaning at home, at work, or in public spaces, using the right method makes all the difference. A little awareness goes a long way in creating a healthier environment for everyone.
