Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Sanitizing: do you know the difference?

The terms “clean,” “disinfect,” and “sanitize” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and purposes in maintaining a hygienic environment. Understanding the difference between these terms is essential to ensure proper cleaning practices. Here’s a breakdown of each term and methods to accomplish them:

Clean

Cleaning is the process of removing visible dirt, debris, and organic matter from surfaces. It primarily focuses on improving appearance rather than killing germs. Cleaning can be done using soap, water, and scrubbing tools. Here are some methods to clean effectively:

• Sweeping or vacuuming floors to remove loose dirt and dust.
• Wiping surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge to remove visible stains, spills, or grime.
• Using a mild detergent or all-purpose cleaner to remove tougher stains or grease.
• Laundering clothes, linens, and fabrics with detergent to remove dirt and odors.

Examples of cleaning products

1. All-purpose cleaner: A versatile cleaner suitable for various surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and walls.
2. Glass cleaner: Specifically formulated to clean and polish glass surfaces without leaving streaks or residue.
3. Bathroom cleaner: Designed to remove soap scum, hard water stains, and grime from bathroom fixtures, tiles, and surfaces.
4. Kitchen cleaner: Effective in removing grease, food stains, and bacteria from kitchen countertops, stovetops, and appliances.
5. Carpet cleaner: Specially formulated to clean and refresh carpets, removing stains and odors caused by spills, dirt, and pets.

Disinfect

Disinfecting refers to killing or inactivating a vast majority of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It reduces the risk of infection by minimizing the presence of harmful microorganisms. Disinfection can be achieved using chemical agents designed to kill germs. Some methods to disinfect include:

• Using disinfectant wipes or sprays on frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and handles.
• Diluting bleach in water (following proper guidelines) and using it to wipe down surfaces.
• Utilizing UV-C light devices specifically designed for disinfection.
• Applying alcohol-based hand sanitizers to hands, ensuring they contain at least 60% alcohol.

Examples of disinfecting products

1. Bleach: A strong disinfectant and sanitizer that can be diluted and used for various cleaning purposes, especially in areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide: An effective disinfectant capable of killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It can be used on surfaces, wounds, and for sanitizing beauty tools.
3. Isopropyl Alcohol: A powerful disinfectant commonly used in healthcare settings to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces and medical equipment.
4. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): These are disinfectants used in household and commercial products. They are effective against a wide range of microorganisms and are commonly found in surface cleaners.

Note: Numerous studies are relevant to QAC’s detriment to humans and the environment. https://foodsafety.wisc.edu/consumer/fact_sheets/Cleaners_Sanitizers.pdf

https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/understanding-products/disinfectants/quaternary-ammonium-compounds-faq-commondisinfectant#:~:text=Quats%20can%20be%20found%20in,soaps%20and%20some%20hand%20sanitizers).

Phenolic Disinfectants: These disinfectants are effective against a variety of microorganisms and are commonly used in healthcare settings, including hospitals.

Sanitize

Sanitizing refers to reducing the number of germs on surfaces to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. It is a milder form of disinfection and is commonly applied to food preparation surfaces, utensils, and equipment. Sanitization can be achieved through the following methods:

• Using hot water and soap to wash dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment.
• Employing high-temperature dishwashers or steam cleaning equipment to sanitize kitchenware.
• Applying sanitizing solutions specifically formulated for food contact surfaces (e.g., quaternary ammonium compounds).

Examples of Sanitizing products

1. Hand sanitizer: An alcohol-based solution used to reduce the number of microorganisms on hands when soap and water are not available.
2. Surface sanitizers: Specifically designed to reduce the number of bacteria and viruses on surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and light switches.
3. Dishwashing sanitizers: Used to sanitize dishes, glasses, and utensils by killing harmful bacteria and ensuring proper hygiene.
4. Laundry sanitizers: These products eliminate bacteria and odors, providing an added level of cleanliness and freshness to clothes and textiles.
5. Air sanitizers: Devices that eliminate airborne bacteria, viruses, and allergens, ensuring clean and fresh air in enclosed spaces.

Remember, the level of cleaning, disinfecting, or sanitizing required depends on the specific setting, purpose, and nature of the items or surfaces being treated. Following manufacturer instructions and guidelines is essential to ensure effective and safe practices. 

God Bless