Cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting are distinct actions, and knowing the difference between them can help promote safety in any space.
CLEAN
CLEANING REMOVES GERMS
• The act of removing visible dirt and debris from objects or surfaces
• Cleaning works by using soap/detergent with water to remove impurities from surfaces either manually or mechanically
• Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and risk of spreading infection.
Cleaning guidelines and tips:
• Start by lightly dusting with a soft, grit-free cloth
• After dusting, dampen both or chamois with a solution of mild non-abrasive liquid soap and or detergent solution
• Wipe clean and dry with a soft, grit-free cloth, sponge
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners and steel wool to prevent scratching
• Test any cleaning method or agent in an inconspicuous area of the surface
SANITIZE
SANITIZE
• This process comes after a surface is cleaned
• Lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements
• Carries a general claim of germ control, but generally not organism specific
• According to the EPA, no disinfectant can claim to disinfect soft surfaces
• EPA provides a soft surface sanitizing claim. If your disinfectant has this claim, you can expect it to kill at least 99.9% of vegetative bacteria
Sanitizing guidelines and tips:
• Follow the sanitizer manufacturer’s instructions when applying the agent
DISINFECT
DISINFECTING KILLS GERMS
• This process comes after a surface is cleaned
• Disinfecting kills germs on objects or surfaces with the use of chemicals
• Most common disinfectants include one of the following active ingredients: Quaternary Ammonium (Quats), Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach), Hydrogen Peroxide, or 70% Isopropyl Alcohol
• EPA-registered disinfectants List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2
Disinfecting guidelines and tips:
• Follow the disinfectant manufacturer’s instructions when applying the agent
• Once finished, and the contact time has been reached, remove all disinfecting agents from the surface with water and a grit-free cloth, then dry
Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting efforts should be part of an organization’s comprehensive systems-based approach to provide a safe and sustainable workspace.
