Giving your kitchen or bathroom a good scrub might leave you feeling like you got rid of all the germs on the surfaces, but are you really getting rid of harmful microbes?
Most people use the terms "cleaning", "sanitizing", and "disinfecting" interchangeably, but there are some subtle - but important - differences.
In short, cleaning removes dirt, sanitizing kills bacteria, whereas disinfecting kills bacteria and viruses.
Read on to learn the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting, as well as when which cleaning method is preferred.
What Is Cleaning?
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines "cleaning" as when you physically remove germs, dirt, or impurities from dirty surfaces or objects.
Soap, detergents, and water are used while cleaning to wash and rinse a surface.
Homeowners should clean surfaces regularly - especially in the bathroom and kitchen. Although cleaning does not necessarily eliminate germs, it is usually the precursor to sanitizing and disinfecting.
When to clean
You can clean surfaces or objects when there's noticeable dirt or grime. Cleaning involves using soap and water to remove dirt, and it might get rid of some germs too, but it won't necessarily kill most of the microbes.
Wiping down countertops, washing your dishes with dishwashing liquid, or using soapy water to clean your car - these are all considered "cleaning".
What Is Sanitizing?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the CDC define "sanitizing" as a method of cleaning that uses chemical products to kill most bacteria. However, sanitizing does not kill viruses.
Before sanitizing an object or surface, it must be cleaned and all grime must be removed. That's because sanitizing does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces - the dirt, dust, or debris will still be on the surface unless you clean it first.
Surface sanitizing products usually include weak bleach to kill germs.
When to sanitize
You can sanitize all objects that don't come into contact with harmful bacteria.
It is important to sanitize food contact surfaces or any objects that come into contact with the mouth, like toys or baby feeding supplies. Sanitizing cooking tools is sufficient, as you don't want these to come into contact with harsh chemicals used to disinfect surfaces and objects.
You can also use hand sanitizer after touching high-touch surfaces or when out in public. Hand sanitizer is useful when handling card machines and shopping carts, using public restrooms, or after being on public transportation.
What is considered a sanitizer?
According to the EPA, sanitizers must reduce bacteria by 99.9%. A water and bleach mixture will suffice as a sanitizer as it can kill germs and lower the risk of spreading infection.
What Is Disinfecting?
Disinfecting is the most rigorous method of getting rid of microbes. It kills almost all germs, including bacteria and viruses.
Disinfecting products often meet rigorous EPA testing requirements and may contain very strong bleach or other chemicals.
Disinfecting is necessary to prevent the spread of infection or disease. It is useful when someone is sick or has a weakened immune system.
When to disinfect
Disinfecting is not usually part of the cleaning routine of homeowners. It is more often used for disease control and cleaning up hazardous materials, like bodily fluids.
That's why biohazard decontamination companies, like Chore-ology, use disinfecting cleaning agents for crime scene and infectious disease cleanup.
The use of disinfectants is also common in medical settings, like hospitals or dentistry offices.
However, sinks and toilets (including toilet handles) should be disinfected as these objects come in contact with harmful bacteria.
When someone is sick in the house, the surfaces they touch often should also be disinfected, like doorknobs and taps.
However, you should avoid overusing disinfectants as they can be harmful to the environment and are typically quite corrosive. Always wear the appropriate safety gear when disinfecting (which we'll touch on later).
What is considered a disinfectant?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a disinfectant should kill 99.999% of all microbes (as opposed to 99.9% for a sanitizer).
Although in writing this seems like a minor difference, it significantly decreases the risk of diseases and infections spreading.
What Is Sterilizing?
Sterilizing is in a category of its own. It is highly unlikely that you'll have to sterilize anything at home.
According to the CDC, sterilizing is when all microbes are destroyed.
Sterilization is common in healthcare settings where chemical and physical methods are used to kill viruses and bacteria. This includes steaming under pressure, hydrogen peroxide, gas, dry heat, and other strong chemicals.
Laboratories and hospitals will use this method of decontamination to ensure the tools and surfaces are completely sterile and free of microbial life.
How Can I Safely Disinfect Surfaces?
Since disinfection uses harsher chemicals than cleaning and sanitizing, it is important to take necessary safety precautions:
Always wear chemical-proof, non-permeable gloves when working with chemicals.
Store all disinfectants in their original containers.
Use disinfectant according to the instructions on the container.
If necessary (or indicated by the product label), wear goggles to protect your eyes when disinfecting.
Don't mix different disinfecting products, as it can lead to the release of noxious gases.
Store all disinfectants out of the reach of children.
If you inhale, swallow, or get disinfectant on your skin, follow the instructions on the label or get immediate medical assistance. You can call 1-800-222-1222 to get in contact with the American Association of Poison Control Centers.