Cleaning Vs. Disinfecting: Coronavirus Edition

We always expect our houses be a safe place where we can relax. Unfortunately, we usually bring home germs through dirty hands, shoes, clothing, and phones. Even if your home looks clean, it may still contain impurities that could affect your health. What’s the best way to protect the health of your family and you? Do you clean? Do you disinfect? What’s the difference between cleaning vs. disinfecting?

After washing the hands, the next best way to protect your family is to wipe down countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and common surfaces with a microfiber cloth dampened in a solution of hot water and an all-purpose cleaner. With electronics, use wipes with at least 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean cell phones, remotes, and keyboards.

Cleaning Shouldn’t Be Confused With Disinfecting

So what’s the difference between cleaning vs. disinfecting? Cleaning means you’re removing germs, but not killing. Disinfecting means you’re killing germs.

Disinfecting will kill microscopic organisms so that they can no longer cause harm. The key areas to address are surfaces that are shared by family members and those that come in close contact with bodily fluids.

Choosing The Right Products

It is important to read labels and follow the directions on products. 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.

When it comes to cleaning vs. disinfecting, you must look for disinfectants as they can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi when used properly.

Clean Efficiently

Have a method that you follow when you clean your house to make the process effective and efficient. A quick checklist may help with this. During this time of pandemic, remember to focus on cleaning high traffic areas. Clean and disinfect objects that are touched a lot.

This includes:

  • Light switches
  • Door handles
  • Stove range knobs
  • Faucet handles
  • Toilet flush lever

If you prefer to count on a professional cleaning company to take care of your house, give us a call! Our team of cleaners are trained to clean and disinfect your house, and keep your family safe!

Brilho Cleaning Services, 416.923.3300

Source: Business Insider