5 Popular Myths About Disinfecting, Debunked by Our Cleaning Experts

There is so much information online about disinfection that it can be overwhelming at times. The info can also be misleading. The best way to take the guesswork out of disinfecting is to trust pros who have made it their business for years. We’ve been providing disinfectants and other cleaning supplies in Bismarck and throughout the Midwest since 1966. That means we’ve helped folks navigate 54 flu seasons, and that experience has prepared us to provide the best disinfectants in Bismarck for getting through the coronavirus pandemic. Keep reading to debunk the five most common myths about disinfecting.

Myth: Disinfecting and sanitizing are the same thing.

Many people use the terms cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing synonymously, but they are not the same things. Cleaning is always the first step because it is simply removing dirt, debris and dust from a surface. If you’re wiping down a surface with a rag or even using soap and water, you’re likely just cleaning it. Cleaning is helpful in terms of infection control because it removes some germs.

Disinfecting actually kills germs on objects and surfaces. Disinfectants must be left on a surface for a period of time to get the job done,.

Sanitizing simply means you are taking steps to reduce the number of germs to a safer level according to public health standards or your facility’s requirements. Sanitizing can incorporate cleaning, disinfecting or both.

Disinfecting FAQs

Myth: All cleaning solutions disinfect.

Think again! Check the labels on your cleaning supplies closely to discover if they are disinfectants. If you aren’t sure, you can always ask us or search the Environmental Protection Agency’s registration here.

Myth: Disinfectants and sanitizers can cut through dirt and debris.

Always clean visibly dirty surfaces before you disinfect or sanitize them. Remember that cleaning removes germs from surfaces, making the job of disinfectant easier.

Myth: Vinegar is a natural disinfectant.

Vinegar isn’t an effective disinfectant, but it can be a suitable cleaner. There’s no proof that vinegar can kill viruses or germs, so play it safe and always use an EPA-registered disinfectant after cleaning with it.

Myth: Disinfectants work instantly.

No matter which disinfectant you choose, it needs time to do its job properly. Always check your product labels for a dwell or contact time. This is the length of time a hard, non-porous surface must remain wet with solution for maximum germ killing. The dwell time may range from three minutes to ten or more, so make sure you check and apply enough solution before waiting and wiping it away.

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