Cleaning vs. Disinfecting: What's the Difference?

When someone in your household gets sick, routine cleaning alone is not enough to prevent the spread of viruses to others. It does not eliminate harmful bacteria or germs or prevent the disease from spreading. This is where disinfection becomes essential. But what exactly is the difference between cleaning and disinfecting? Let's break it down:

Cleaning removes contaminants like dirt, grease, food remnants, and other particles from surfaces.
Disinfecting removes pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It reduces germs to a safe level according to public health guidelines, but it doesn't necessarily eliminate them completely.

How to Choose the Right Disinfectant and Use It Correctly

Not all disinfectants are effective against all types of viruses or bacteria, so it’s important to check the manufacturer's instructions on the product label or online to ensure it's effective against the specific germs you want to kill.

Additionally, using the disinfectant properly is crucial for maintaining a safe environment. When using any disinfectant, always follow the recommended usage instructions. Pay attention to the contact time, which is the amount of time the disinfectant should stay on a surface to be effective. Misusing disinfectants can reduce their effectiveness.

How to Disinfect Kitchen and Bathroom Surfaces

Hard Surfaces (like countertops, sinks, and faucets): Start by cleaning these surfaces to remove dirt, food, grease, or oils. Then, apply the disinfectant according to the manufacturer's instructions, making sure to follow the recommended contact time. Always check that the product is safe for the material to avoid permanent damage.
Soft Surfaces (like couches or curtains): Before using any disinfectant or steam cleaner on soft surfaces, read the fabric care instructions and disinfectant guidelines. Some disinfectants are only suitable for washable fabrics, and it may not be safe to use them on upholstery. Spray disinfectants are often a good option for soft surfaces.

Using Bleach for Disinfection

Bleach is one of the most effective disinfectants for killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. To disinfect using bleach:

Clean the surface with soap and warm water to remove visible dirt.
Rinse the surface with more water.
Apply a bleach solution to disinfect.
Let it air dry.

Safety Tips for Using Bleach:

Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Make sure the room is well-ventilated.
Check the surface: Avoid using bleach on fabrics or hardwood floors.
Properly store bleach: Ensure the bleach is stored away from sunlight and heat.
Use fresh bleach solutions: Don’t use a bleach solution that’s more than 24 hours old.

Using Vinegar for Cleaning

Vinegar is a popular cleaning agent because it’s affordable and easy to use. It's great for cleaning kitchen surfaces, windows, countertops, and even cleaning microwaves and coffee machines. However, while vinegar is an excellent cleaner, it’s not a disinfectant.

How to Use Vinegar for Cleaning High-Touch Surfaces:

For high-touch surfaces like light switches, doorknobs, and countertops, wipe them down regularly using a vinegar solution, especially after visitors come over. While vinegar helps with cleaning, disinfecting periodically is necessary for added protection.

How to Clean and Disinfect Your Home:

Declutter First: Reducing clutter makes it easier to clean shelves, countertops, and floors and also reduces the dust and dirt you need to deal with.
Focus on High-Touch Areas: These include doorbells, light switches, remote controls, and faucets. These areas need frequent cleaning and disinfecting, especially in homes with kids or pets.
Clean Floors: Floors need regular cleaning by sweeping or vacuuming debris, followed by mopping with a disinfectant solution, especially in the kitchen and bathroom.
Kitchen Cleaning: Since it's a food prep area, it’s essential to clean and disinfect kitchen surfaces such as countertops, sinks, cutting boards, refrigerator doors, and kitchen tools.
Bathroom Disinfection: Bathrooms need a comprehensive cleaning and disinfecting routine, especially for the toilet, sink, shower, and bathtub. Pay attention to faucets and handles, which are frequently touched.
Laundry: Regularly wash clothes and bed linens. Use disinfectant in the laundry water, and for extra protection, dry the items on the highest heat setting to eliminate any lingering germs.
Ventilation Ducts: Dust and bacteria can accumulate in air vents, so clean them with a vacuum cleaner and wipe surrounding areas to keep the air quality in your home fresh.
Electronic Devices: Phones, tablets, and computers are used frequently but rarely cleaned. Use disinfecting wipes to clean them but avoid spraying any cleaner directly on the device to prevent damage.

Final Thoughts:

Routine cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy home, but disinfection becomes even more crucial when viruses or bacteria are present. By using the right products in the right way and focusing on high-touch surfaces, you can reduce the spread of germs in your home and keep your environment safe for everyone. Always follow safety guidelines, especially when using products like bleach or disinfectants, and don't forget to wash your hands regularly to protect yourself and your family!