In recent times with everything going on, it is more important than ever to understand the differences between cleaning, disinfecting, sanitizing, and sterilizing. More times than not, these terms are used interchangeably to describe each other but have completely different meanings.

With people starting to make their return to work amid the pandemic, it is a good idea to make sure you understand proper techniques and the differences among these terms. So what really is the difference between the four? And when is it appropriate to use one over the other?

Differences Between Cleaning, Disinfecting, Sanitizing, and Sterilizing

Cleaning: Involves using soap and water to rid surfaces and objects of dirt, germs, and other impurities. It does not kill bacteria per se but lowers the number of them and the chance of spreading infection.

Disinfecting: Is the process of using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces and objects. It does not clean or remove germs necessarily but lowers the chance of spreading infection by killing germs after cleaning.

Sanitizing: Works to lower the number of germs to a safer level on surfaces and objects subject to public health standards or requirements. This is done through cleaning or disinfecting surfaces and objects to lower the chance of spreading infection.

Sterilizing: Is a method that destroys all germs and microorganisms. It is done in a specific way with a certain temperature, time, equipment, and other quality controls.

What Should be Cleaned, Disinfected, Sanitized, or Sterilized

Depending on if the material is porous or non-porous will tell you whether or not it should be cleaned or disinfected. Non-porous materials need to be both cleaned and disinfected, whereas porous materials can only be cleaned. So what is the difference between porous and non-porous materials? Porous materials are any soft surfaces such as towels, capes, chairs, and so forth. Unlike porous materials, non-porous materials are any hard surfaces usually made of metal, plastic, glass, and synthetic materials. Just remember that disinfecting only works on clean surfaces and objects. So cleaning must be completed first before any disinfecting can take place.

Sanitizing is better than cleaning because it reduces the number of germs on things but does not beat disinfecting. It will do the trick until disinfecting can occur as it reduces the amount of germs but does not destroy them. Sterilizing is better than disinfecting but is not usually required in the average everyday setting and is rather reserved for healthcare facilities and nail salons to be used on different instruments and equipment.

What Is Contact Time and Why It Matters

Contact time is the amount of time that a chemical disinfectant needs to be physically touching surfaces and objects to kill germs. The amount of time that the disinfectant needs to be in contact varies depending on the product, so it is vital to read labels but most are between 2 and 10 minutes. This also includes how long objects should be immersed or wet. Disinfectants can be in spray, wipe, concentrate, liquid, and other forms.

Visit Nectar to stock up on all of your disinfecting, sterilizing, and sanitizing products today!