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What’s the Difference Between Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Sanitizing?
Cleaning removes dirt, dust, and impurities from surfaces. It doesn’t kill germs but helps reduce their numbers.
Sanitizing reduces the number of germs on surfaces to safe levels, based on public health standards.
Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces using EPA-approved chemicals. Disinfecting is often done after cleaning to lower the risk of spreading infections.
Recommendations:
Maintain clean and hygienic workplaces, especially in high-touch areas. Use only EPA-registered disinfectants to ensure effectiveness and compliance.
Our Recommendation: Clean with soap and water before disinfecting. Focus on daily disinfection of high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
Top 10 Germ Hotspots in Homes and Offices and How to Properly Clean Them
Doorknobs
Light switches
Elevator buttons
Keyboards and telephones
Breakroom handles and appliances
Bathroom faucets
Remote controls
Desks and countertops
Handrails
Trash can lids
Proper Cleaning Protocol:
Clean with soap or detergent first.
Disinfect using EPA-approved solutions.
Allow the recommended dwell time to ensure proper disinfection.
How Often Should You Disinfect Your Home or Business?
For Homes:
Daily: Kitchen surfaces, bathroom counters, doorknobs, and phones.
Weekly: Floors and general living areas.
For Businesses:
Daily: Desks, reception areas, breakrooms.
Multiple times a day: Bathrooms, door handles, high-traffic areas.
After each use: Conference rooms, shared workspaces.
During flu seasons or viral outbreaks, increase frequency and monitor with cleaning logs.
The Safest Cleaning Products for Families, Pets, and the Planet
Recommended Safe Options:
Hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners
Alcohol solutions (minimum 70%)
Plant-based products with the EPA Safer Choice label
Baking soda or vinegar (for surface cleaning, not for disinfection)
Products to Avoid:
Ammonia and bleach mixtures (toxic)
Cleaners with artificial dyes or strong fragrances
CDC & OSHA Advice:
Always follow manufacturer safety instructions.
Ensure rooms are well-ventilated during and after cleaning.
Use appropriate PPE (gloves, masks, eye protection if needed).
Our Recommendation: Opt for non-toxic, biodegradable, and certified cleaning solutions, especially in environments with children or pets.
Why Professional Cleaning Services Are Still Crucial Post-Pandemic
Although COVID-19 emergency declarations have ended, the need for a hygienic, sanitized space remains essential.
Why It Matters:
Professional cleaners follow CDC and OSHA cleaning protocols.
Use of hospital-grade disinfectants and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Tailored cleaning plans with proper documentation and accountability.
OSHA Standards:
Employers are required to maintain safe, hazard-free workplaces.
Regular disinfection is a part of maintaining that standard.
Our Recommendation: Partner with a licensed commercial cleaning company to ensure compliance, reduce liability, and support a healthier work or living environment for everyone.
FAQs About Cleaning and Disinfection
Q: What should I clean daily versus weekly? A: High-touch areas (knobs, phones, counters) should be cleaned daily. Floors, baseboards, and less frequently used spaces can be cleaned weekly.
Q: Are natural cleaning products really effective? A: Some are, especially those with EPA Safer Choice labels. However, not all natural products disinfect. Always verify that a product is also EPA-approved for killing germs.
Q: How can I verify if a disinfectant is approved by the EPA? A: Visit the EPA List N to search for registered disinfectants by name or active ingredient.
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