Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are three important aspects of keeping you and your family safe. While they can be mixed up and used interchangeably, these three terms have their specific purpose and method for removing germs and bacteria.
As experienced Texas cleaning service providers, we at Green Cleaning DFW highly advise you, as a homeowner, to become more familiar with the distinctions between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Here is a quick breakdown as to what each process entails.
What is Cleaning?
Cleaning involves removing any unhygienic objects from a space, like microorganisms and allergens. Sweeping, mopping, and wiping down surfaces are the most common processes included in cleaning.
Physical labor is involved in cleaning one’s house. For instance, using soap and water to wash your hands is a form of cleaning because it is about removing rather than killing microorganisms. For sanitizing and disinfecting to be effective, the surface or object must be cleaned before it can be treated.
One of the best ways to rid your house of viruses is by cleaning since it focuses on removing rather than killing. Viruses are not alive, unlike bacteria, which are living microorganisms. Hence, viruses should be removed from surfaces.
What is Sanitizing?
Sanitizing, or sterilizing a surface, may be the option you’re most familiar with. It is most popular for commercial establishments like restaurants and shopping malls.
Sanitation is the process of reducing bacteria or microorganisms in an environment by applying heat or chemicals. The most common chemical sanitizer used in public areas is bleach. At home, especially amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, almost every individual uses hand sanitizers. They are effective in reducing germs on one’s hands and reducing the spread of infections.
On the other hand, sanitizers can only do so far. They can reduce the number of bacteria, but not fully eradicate them. The United States Environmental Protection Agency declares that only disinfectants can work to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
What is Disinfection?
The most efficient method for removing germs is disinfection, which typically involves killing all microorganisms to produce a sterile environment. This is most often seen in a hospital or other medical setting.
When disinfectants are used, they also go a step further in preventing the spread of viruses by disabling them. In fact, during the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the best ways to combat the spread of infection may be to disinfect high-traffic areas or frequently used items such as light switches and doorknobs.
When using disinfectants, be sure to consider the amount of time needed for them to do the job. Allowing them to contact a surface and soak up germs takes between 10-20 minutes.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, cleaning removes, sanitizing reduces and disinfecting kills germs. Each method of germ removal offers its level of benefits. All three methods have their different levels of efficacy on viruses too.
To learn more about cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting, kindly get in touch with the cleaning professionals over at Green Cleaning DFW. We are known for both our residential cleaning and commercial cleaning services, which are highly effective in protecting your home or business from the spread of COVID-19. Currently serving Rockwall, Heath, Fate, Royse City, Caddo Mills, Poetry, Lavon, Wylie, Sachse, Rowlett, Garland, and Forney, you can count on us to deliver effective, reliable, and eco-friendly cleaning services. Call us today at (972) 836-8199 or fill out our convenient online form for your free quote!
