Disinfecting Debunking

Household cleaning and disinfecting are a great way to keep you and your family safe from harmful bacteria. However, it is important to understand the difference between the facts and myths of disinfecting when it comes to your home.

The term disinfecting is regulated by the EPA, meaning the product undergoes significant antimicrobial testing and meet certain standards. EPA classifies disinfectants into the following three classes: hospital disinfectants, broad-spectrum (general) disinfectants, and limited disinfectants. When done properly, cleaning and disinfecting is the best way to reduce the spread of germs on hard surfaces.

MYTH: Cleaning and disinfecting are the same things.

These two processes do not perform the same actions. Although cleaning removes dirt, germs, and debris present on surfaces, disinfecting is the process of killing bacteria and viruses. However, they play a vital role in keeping your home sanitary when used in combination.

MYTH: All cleaning products disinfect.

Cleaning products only disinfect if stated on the label of the product. General cleaning products do not eliminate pathogens that can cause an illness. To ensure your cleaning wipes are a disinfectant, check the label for an EPA registration number to see what viruses and bacteria they kill. Dreumex Surface Disinfecting Wipes cleans and disinfects, saving time and promoting wellness.

MYTH: Disinfectants work instantly.

Disinfecting surfaces is quick and convenient, but not instant. Each disinfecting product comes with its own instructions regarding dwell times and kill claims. Make sure to check the label or directions for the bacteria you are trying to kill or refer to the manufacturer’s product leaflets.

MYTH: Only high-touch areas need to be disinfected.

Consider every area in a home to be a high-touch area, as guests and family members will come into contact with them at some point. Cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces in your home is crucial in maintaining a healthy environment for you, your family, and your friends. Disinfecting all touchpoints throughout the house will reduce the chance of illness spreading.

MYTH: You do not need to follow the contact time requirements for disinfectants.

When disinfecting surfaces, follow the contact times to ensure the product has enough time to perform correctly. The contact time refers to how long a disinfectant must remain wet on a surface to kill all microorganisms that it's effective against. Sanitizing claims are often promoted on the front of products as sanitizing bacteria is much faster than disinfecting.

Solutions for Household Cleaning and Disinfecting

Now that some disinfecting myths are busted, it is time to clean and disinfect the accurate way. Establishing and following a consistent routine with reliable products reduce the number of bacteria and germs on surfaces. Dreumex offers the solutions for your cleaning and disinfecting needs. Contact our sales team today at sales-usa@dreumex.com.