CLEANING VS DISINFECTING

What’s the Difference and Why it Matters

Maintaining a clean and healthy environment has never been more important. But when it comes to ensuring your workplace or commercial space is safe and hygienic, do you know the difference between cleaning and disinfecting? Understanding the difference between cleaning and disinfecting is vital for creating a space that looks tidy and protects against harmful germs and bacteria.

What is Cleaning?

Cleaning involves the removal of dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces. Regular cleaning typically uses soap, water, and mechanical action to physically remove particles. Surfaces to clean include floors, countertops, and windows. Cleaning doesn’t necessarily kill germs but helps reduce their presence by removing the grime where they thrive.

When Should You Clean?

To remove visible dirt, stains, and clutter
Prior to disinfecting or sanitizing

Example: Wiping down a desk with soap and water removes dust and debris but doesn’t necessarily eliminate bacteria or viruses.

What is Disinfecting?

Disinfecting goes a step further by killing germs, viruses, and bacteria on surfaces using chemical solutions approved by the EPA. Disinfecting has a dwell time for disinfectants to effectively kill bacteria. Unlike cleaning, disinfecting does NOT remove dirt or debris. Disinfecting focuses on eliminating pathogens that cause illnesses.

When Should You Disinfect?

After cleaning to kill germs
In high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches
After a known illness outbreak
During flu season

Example: Spraying an EPA-approved disinfectant on a countertop and allowing it to sit for the recommended dwell time effectively eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses.

Cleaning vs Disinfecting: Key Differences

Feature	Cleaning	Disinfecting
Purpose	Removes dirt, dust, and debris	Kills germs, bacteria, and viruses
Process	Uses soap, water, and scrubbing	Uses chemical solutions
Effectiveness	Reduces germs by removing their habitat	Eliminates germs on contact
Frequency	Performed regularly	Done periodically or in response to risk

Why Both Cleaning and Disinfecting are Necessary

Many people think cleaning alone is enough, but that’s not the case. Cleaning reduces germs by removing dirt. Disinfecting targets and kills the germs that could cause illnesses.

Cleaning	Disinfecting
#1 - Start with cleaning to remove top debris	#2 - Disinfect surfaces to remove bacteria, viruses, and pathogens
#3 - Remove any film that can be created from disinfecting

The Role of Professional Cleaning Services

Maintaining a clean and disinfected space can be challenging, especially in busy commercial environments. A commercial cleaning company will build a plan to meet your cleaning needs. Trained professionals use industry-grade equipment and products to properly clean and disinfect all surfaces.

What Professionals Bring to the Table:

Specialized Tools: High-efficiency vacuums, microfiber cloths, and electrostatic sprayers for thorough coverage.
Expertise: Knowledge of the right products and techniques for different surfaces.
Time-Saving Solutions: Professionals work efficiently to minimize disruption to your operations.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean and Disinfected Space

Develop a Cleaning Frequency: Establish daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning tasks to stay on top of maintenance.
Focus on High-Touch Areas: Prioritize cleaning and disinfecting doorknobs, phones, keyboards, and shared equipment.
Use the Right Products: Choose EPA-approved disinfectants and avoid cross-contamination by using separate tools for different areas.
Educate Employees: Train staff on proper cleaning and disinfecting protocols to maintain a hygienic workspace.
Hire Professionals: Partner with a trusted commercial cleaning company for consistent and effective results.

FAQ: Common Questions About Cleaning vs Disinfecting

1. Is cleaning enough to remove germs?

No, cleaning removes dirt and some germs, but disinfecting is required to kill bacteria and viruses effectively.

2. How often should I disinfect my office or workspace?

High-touch surfaces should be disinfected daily, while other areas may only need weekly or as-needed disinfecting, depending on usage and risk factors.

3. Can I use the same product for cleaning and disinfecting?

Some products offer both cleaning and disinfecting properties, but it’s important to follow the label instructions to ensure proper germ elimination.

4. Do natural disinfectants work as well as chemical disinfectants?

Some natural disinfectants, like hydrogen peroxide and vinegar, have germ-killing properties, but they may not be as effective as EPA-approved chemical disinfectants against all pathogens.

Prioritize Health with Professional Help

Understanding the difference between cleaning and disinfecting is the first step toward creating a healthier environment. While cleaning removes dirt and reduces germs, disinfecting kills harmful pathogens to prevent the spread of illness. Both are necessary to maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming space.

At Mid City Cleaning, we specialize in professional cleaning and disinfecting services. Let us help you maintain a spotless and hygienic space for your employees and customers. Contact us today for a free quote!

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