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Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting: What’s the Difference


“Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting: What’s the Difference?”

Many people think cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are the same, but they are not! If you are a cleaning professional or responsible for maintaining cleanliness in your facility/home, understanding the differences is crucial. Each process has its own purpose and importance.

Cleaning involves removing dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces. This process physically eliminates visible particles but does not kill germs.

Sanitizing reduces the number of bacteria on surfaces to a safe level as determined by public health standards. While sanitizers kill most germs, they do not eliminate all of them. They are commonly used in food-related industries and childcare centres for cleaning items that children put in their mouths.

Disinfecting goes a step further by killing bacteria and viruses on non-porous surfaces, helping to prevent the spread of infections. This is especially important in places like hospitals and schools where people are more vulnerable. Sanitizers must reduce bacteria by 99.9% within 30 seconds, which is why they are ideal for restaurants needing quick turnaround on dishes and utensils. Disinfectants, according to the EPA, must reduce bacteria by 99.999% within a few minutes, typically 5 to 10 minutes. This period is known as “dwell time” and varies depending on the product. Before deciding whether to clean, sanitize, or disinfect, assess the surface and its needs. Often, cleaning is a necessary first step before sanitizing or disinfecting, as dirt and debris can reduce the effectiveness of these products.