Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting- The Basics

Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting- The Basics

We’ve spent our whole lives cleaning our homes and ourselves! We may have nailed our hand washing routine, but what about cleaning surfaces and areas in our homes that are used more frequently? Given the current situation, we could all benefit from a little refresher on what the difference is between Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting. Few of us enjoy the mundane task of cleaning, but knowing how to do it the correct way will ensure you aren’t wasting your time moving germs from one end of the counter to another! Learn more about the difference below!

What is Cleaning? 

Cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces by physically wiping them away using soap or detergent. Cleaning counters and surfaces will remove the germs from that area, but they will not kill the germs!

What is Sanitizing? 

Sanitizing works by lowering the number of germs present. This is judged and determined by the standards set by public health regulations. It both cleans and disinfects the area to eliminate the spread.

What is Disinfecting?

Disinfecting is what you want if you are looking to kill germs and bacteria lingering on counters and surfaces. All disinfectants are made with chemicals that work to kill these unwanted guests. However, disinfecting does not necessarily clean the surface, it just kills the germs and bacteria present. 

Which Method is Best? 

• It is always a good idea to clean a surface before you disinfect to remove any visible dirt or dust. However, following up with a disinfectant will be key to ensuring you kill the germs and bacteria. Not just move them! Cleaning sets the stage for your disinfectant to work effectively. Spectrum Health recommends cleaning, disinfecting, and then cleaning again. 
• Check your labels! According to Dr. Joseph Horvath, associate professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases, “Products labeled as disinfectants will adequately kill viruses and bacteria if used correctly.” If the label promises to just “sanitize” a surface, the fine print might say that it will kill 99.9% of the bacteria, but not mention if it’s effective against viruses or fungi. You want to look for disinfectants as they can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi when used properly.” The EPA also published a list of disinfectants to use during the current situation. You can find the list here.
• While you are checking your labels, read the instructions! Disinfectants are labeled with a manufacturer’s contact time, meaning how long the disinfectant needs to sit on the surface and be in contact with germs before wiping away. It’s longer than most of us probably realize! 
• We are all aware of the shortage of disinfectant products, but don’t fear! If you don’t have an official disinfectant, you can make one from scratch at home! Spectrum Health recommends using household bleach (1/3 cup per gallon of water or a 70% alcohol solution). Bleach and alcohol both play vital roles in disinfecting that are well researched. 

The Bottom Line

It comes to no surprise that properly cleaning and disinfecting our homes during this uncertain time can go a long way in keeping your home free from germs, viruses, and bacteria. It is important to remember to do your research and follow guidelines by reputable organizations such as local hospitals such as Spectrum Health or the CDC. Stay safe, everyone! We are in this together! 

*MLive posted a great article with Spectrum Health Director of Infection Prevention, Dorine Berriel-Cass. They created a video to go along with it that explains in detail what you can be doing to get the most out of your cleaning at home! View it here. 

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