Cleaning is done with water, a cleaning product, and scrubbing.
Cleaning does not kill bacteria, viruses, or fungi, which are generally referred to as “germs.”
Cleaning products are used to remove germs, dirt, and other organic material by washing them down the drain.
Sanitizing and Disinfecting
Sanitizing and disinfecting products are chemicals that work by killing germs.
These chemicals are also called antimicrobial pesticides.
They are regulated by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (or similar agencies in other states) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Disinfectants kill more germs than sanitizers.
In most cases, a cleaning product is used first.
Next the surface is either sanitized or disinfected when it is necessary.
Benefits of Disinfecting Household Surface
Regular cleaning products do a good job of removing soil, but only disinfectants or disinfectant cleaners (also known as antibacterial cleaners) kill the germs that can cause many illnesses.
Surfaces like kitchen and bathroom counters, door knobs, toilet seats and children's toys may be contaminated with bacteria even when they're not visibly soiled.
Germs can be spread to other surfaces on dirty cleaning cloths and sponges.
Products that claim to kill germs must meet efficacy requirements and guidelines established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and must be registered with EPA and carry an EPA registration number on their label.
In order for surfaces to be effectively disinfected, the instructions on product labels need to be followed carefully.
