Common Myths About Disinfecting Busted By The Experts

The internet is loaded with information about disinfecting and effective cleaning. As much as this has helped to raise awareness on the matter, it has become pretty confusing as many people now don’t understand what to believe.

Although there is a considerable amount of authentic information, there are a few claims that can be misleading. Hence, in this blog, we have listed some of the most common misconceptions about disinfecting.

Myth: Sanitizing Is The Same As Disinfecting

Even though the words cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are used interchangeably, they are totally different from each other. Cleaning entails removing any visible dirt, dust, and debris from a surface by washing and rinsing. It is usually done using soap and water. It does not disinfect or sanitize the surface.

Sanitization, on the other hand, mitigates the risk of illness by reducing ‘some’ of the bacteria identified on a product’s label. On the contrary to this, disinfecting refers to killing 99.9% of bacteria and viruses from the surface or the area you are cleaning.

Myth: All Cleaning Products Kill Bacteria

Not all cleaning products are effective against bacteria and viruses. Every cleaning product is designed and formulated differently. Hence, if you are looking for a cleaning product that is effective against a certain type of bacteria, then you have to check the cleaning product’s label. Manufacturers are bound to enlist the bacteria and viruses a cleaner can act against.

However, if you are looking for a broad spectrum cleaner that can act against all bacteria and viruses, go for a disinfectant.

Myth: Sanitizer Can Cut Through Layers Of Dirt

If you want to sanitize or disinfect a dirty surface, you will have to wipe it of debris, dirt, dust, and grime before you can sanitize it. Many people believe that sanitizers and disinfectants can easily cut through layers of dirt. Some of the products might pass through the layers but for efficient and effective cleaning, it is advised that you wipe down the surface before disinfecting it.

Myth: A Bleach And Water Mixture Is A Good Substitute For Cleaning Products

Although a bleach and water mixture works well against some viruses and bacteria, it is not exactly a proper cleaner. Moreover, bleach can be dangerous for pets and children. You can use it if you are out of disinfectant. However, it is advised that you always invest in a good cleaner.

Moreover, many people like to make water and bleach solutions in advance. They store it like any other cleaner. Know that once mixed with water, bleach loses its effectiveness after about a day.

Myth: Disinfectant Products Work Instantaneously

No matter how good a disinfectant is, it has to be left for a while on the surface in order for it to clean it effectively. It is essential to check the products directions for how long hard, non-porous surfaces must stay wet to effectively kill off any germs. Some cleaners require you to wet the surface for four minutes in order for the cleaner to effectively kill the claimed 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.

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