Disinfection, sanitizing, cleaning – aren’t they all the same thing? What is the difference between these terms? How can I be sure I am correctly disinfecting my space rather than merely ‘cleaning’? We are living in unprecedented times resulting in a slow economy and dangerous public living. Naturally, there are many questions to be answered before assuming that you maintain a safe and healthy environment secure enough for staff and clients.
As a result of the global pandemic, people are scrambling to protect their lives and business. From closing their doors to enforcing several restrictions, it is the responsibility of business owners everywhere to protect their assets. The first step in sterilizing your business is understanding the meaning of cleaning, disinfection, and sanitizing.
Before COVID, simple daily cleaning and sanitation measures were enough to prevent the spread of illness-causing germs. Post-COVID, these tasks carry a lot more weight and must be done in a much larger, more in-depth fashion. Read on below to discover commonly asked disinfection questions and clarify any confusion you might have regarding this topic.
A Broad-Spectrum Disinfectant Kills all Germs on Hard Surfaces
Not true. Broad-spectrum disinfectants are registered to eliminate specific germs. When you are considering whether a disinfectant will work for your need, be sure to read the label. Even if a disinfectant says it is effective against 99% of microorganisms, only the label dictates what it specifically kills.
It is Okay to Use More Disinfectant Than the Label Suggests When Diluting Solutions
False. Because we use chemicals for disinfection and sanitizing procedures, their mixture is sensitive. Therefore, the manufacturer’s recommendations for dilution should be followed precisely.
Personal Protective Equipment Should Be Worn When Applying Disinfectant
Absolutely. From protective eyewear and masks to gloves, personal protective equipment or PPE is recommended for protection against bleach and chlorine-based disinfectants. An apron can also be employed to protect your clothing as well.
If a Disinfecting Wipe is Dry, It Will Clean After Adding Water
False. Rewetting a disinfecting wipe only serves to dilute the formula, rendering it virtually ineffective. Additionally, once a wipe dries out, the disinfectant has likely evaporated.
I Should Allow Disinfectants to Remain Wet Before Wiping Surfaces
True. Typically, disinfectants need to sit from 30-seconds to 10-minutes. Wait times can be found on your product’s label. When a disinfectant is left to sit on contact points and surfaces, there is a greater chance of thorough germ elimination.
There is No Difference Between Disinfectants and Sanitizers
False. Disinfectants and sanitizers are indeed different from one another. Typically, disinfectants have greater efficacy than sanitizers – especially regarding harmful pathogens. Sanitizers are designed to kill specific bacteria—especially foodborne illness sources. As you can see, disinfectants are useful for a broader range of germs, bacteria, and pathogens.
It is Bad to Mix Cleaners and Disinfectants
True. Again, because you are using chemicals, there should be no mixing of cleaners and disinfectants. If you do decide to mix these solutions, it all but loses efficacy.
It is Ideal to Begin Disinfection from the Cleanest to Dirtiest Spaces
True. When you begin your cleaning routine, cleaning, and disinfecting the dirtiest areas last helps prevent cross-contamination.
Cotton Mops are Ideal for Floor Disinfection
False. Cotton mops are less efficient than microfiber mops. Mops crafted from synthetic microfiber are highly efficient, especially in preventing “quat binding” as it often occurs with cotton mops.
When Disinfecting Floors in Medical Facilities, Mop Water Should Be Changed Every Ten Rooms
False. Because medical facilities are more prone to germs and bacteria, mop water should be changed every 2-3 rooms to be safe.
Disinfecting with Germ Hero
Sanitizing and disinfection are paramount to success in business and our personal lives. With a global pandemic currently ailing the world, now is the time to take disinfection seriously. From home to the office, Germ Hero offers affordable services with flexible scheduling that suits your schedule. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.
Germ Hero
4625 S Wynn Rd #100, Las Vegas, NV 89103
702-937-5394
