Disinfecting vs. Sanitizing: Which is Stronger?

We all know that thorough hand washing is essential for keeping ourselves and our colleagues safe. We also want to make sure we’re cleaning, Sanitizing, and disinfecting surfaces in our offices according to best practices. However, the difference between these processes must first be understood. The Commercial Cleaning squad in Seattle explains further.

Disinfecting vs. Sanitizing

It’s all about vocabulary when distinguishing between Sanitizing and disinfecting. Sanitizing and disinfecting attempt to minimize contamination on a surface by killing germs, but disinfecting kills more germs by definition than Sanitizing. Commercial Cleaning pros of Seattle use the term “Sanitizing” to describe a solution or equipment that eliminates the number of germs on a surface—a level that is deemed safe by public health standards. Chemical products meant to “destroy nearly everything” on a surface are referred to as “disinfecting.”

Sanitizing is the technique of Commercial Cleaning specialists in reducing germs on a surface to acceptable levels by employing heat or chemicals in a specified concentration. Sanitizers should only be used on clean surfaces to be effective. They cannot perform their intended function when applied to an unclean surface.
Disinfecting is the process Commercial Cleaning specialists use in killing hazardous bacteria on surfaces by employing a chemical at a specified concentration. After cleaning and rinsing the surface, they apply the disinfectant.

Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, microbes, markings, stains, and other impurities from anything. Commercial Cleaning using ordinary cleansers removes dirt, debris, and numerous germs from a surface, giving it a “clean” look. Still, they are not intended to eliminate pathogens that might cause disease.

Any Commercial Cleaning procedure begins with removing oil, grime, and debris particles using a general-purpose cleaner. Because the leftover dirt typically “consumes” the beneficial components in either a sanitizer or a disinfectant, this should be done before any Sanitizing or Disinfection actions are followed.

Cleaning surfaces with hot, soapy water reduces the amount of virus on the surface. Regular Commercial Cleaning will help to reduce the risk of sickness. Regularly, Commercial Cleaning will help lower the danger of illness. Here are a few surfaces that are handled a lot and need to be sanitized periodically (this isn’t an exhaustive list; there are many more):

Tables
Doorknobs
Toilets
Light switches
Handles
Chairs
Telephones
Sinks and faucets
Touchscreens

When should the Commercial Cleaning crew clean vs. sanitize vs. disinfect?

The Commercial Cleaning crew should clean low-risk surfaces such as floors, windows, and other surfaces where pathogen spread is unlikely. Sanitizing should only be done on surfaces that contact food, as mandated by the food code. Surfaces that are regularly handled and prone to contain infections should be disinfected. Sanitizing does not claim to be antiviral; therefore, there is no guarantee that it will kill the flu or other viruses typically found on surfaces.