It’s important to disinfect your space regularly to help prevent the spread of viruses. Here are the basics you need to know about disinfection and why it’s necessary.

Know the Difference.

Cleaning is getting the dirt out, Sanitizing is what’s used in public health a lot to get down to a certain level of bacteria – sometimes 95% is killed. Disinfection is killing everything.

Cleaning

Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. It doesn’t kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

Disinfecting / Sanitizing

Disinfecting / sanitizing refers to using chemicals (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency-registered disinfectants) to kill germs on surfaces. This process doesn’t necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

Disinfecting hard, nonporous surfaces is one of the most reliable ways to help lower the risk of spreading germs from surfaces by touch.

Among CDC’s tips to clean and disinfect surfaces:

• Wear disposable gloves.
• Clean surfaces using soap and water, then use a disinfectant.
• When using EPA-registered disinfectants, follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product.
• More frequent cleaning and disinfection may be required based on level of use.
• Surfaces and objects in public places (e.g., shopping carts and point-of-sale keypads) should be cleaned and disinfected before each use.