But there are distinct definitions of cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting surfaces in homes, schools, and public places. These definitions are set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to define the level of microbial contamination left on a surface after treatment. For a homeowner, the terms will help you read product labels and determine if the products you are using are providing the proper level of sanitation needed if someone in your home is ill, came into contact with someone ill, or has a compromised immune system.
Definition of Cleaning
Cleaning is the process of removing visible debris, dirt, and dust and organizing a space. Cleaning a surface uses soap or detergent and, usually, water to remove soil and germs through chemical (cleaner), mechanical (scrubbing), and thermal (water temperature) action. Cleaning may not always kill bacteria and germs, but it will remove some of them and aid in lowering the risk of spreading infection.
Definition of Sanitizing
When a product claims to sanitize a surface, it is promising to reduce the level of germs that could be harmful to your health to meet to public health standards or requirements. Sanitizing reduces, not kills, the number and growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Sanitizing is particularly important in food preparation areas where germs and fungi can cause foodborne illnesses.
Definition of Disinfecting
The act of disinfecting kills microscopic organisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi) on surfaces. Disinfection is usually achieved by using EPA-approved chemicals that kill the organisms and prevent them from spreading. Items can also be disinfected using UV-C germicidal short wavelength, ultraviolet light that breaks apart the DNA of bacteria and germs leaving them unable to harm or reproduce. This is the same UV-C light technology used in hospital surgical suites to aid in killing superbugs. Disinfecting does not necessarily remove visible dirt and debris from a surface and is much more effective if basic cleaning is done first.
Should You Clean, Sanitize or Disinfect?
Cleaning should be a routine process that occurs on a daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal basis. Basic housekeeping maintains order, reduces the growth of potentially harmful organisms, helps keep pests under control, and protects the investment you’ve made in your home and belongings. Sanitization is important for health and hygiene and is particularly important on communal surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, light switches, touchpads, and any surface that comes in contact with body fluids. Sanitizing bed linens and undergarments is much more important than sanitizing dress shirts and slacks. Disinfecting should always be done when someone in the household is ill or if someone has a compromised immune system. Following label instructions and using disinfectants correctly is vital to killing microorganisms. If the product is not used correctly, the process only offers a false sense of security.
Tips for Proper Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting
Dr. Schmidt explains that after washing our hands, the next best way to protect our family is to wipe down countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and common surfaces with a microfiber cloth dipped in a solution of hot water and an all-purpose cleaner twice per day. “The slight abrasion of the microfiber cloth and the cleaning solution will lift and dilute any microbes that have settled on the surfaces,” says Dr. Schmidt. Wear protective eyewear and gloves when using harsh chemicals. And always wash your hands with soap and warm water after handling soiled garments, emptying waste receptacles, and using any cleaning product. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and use a disinfectant wipe or alcohol wipe to clean these devices.
