Using the right cleaning methods for your home/office is critical in helping prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses such as Corona virus. In order to identify which cleaning method is needed we first need to consider the surface being cleaned and what germs we are trying to remove or kill. Sanitise and disinfect are terms that are used interchangeably but actually have an important difference. This guide will explain the differences therefore ensuring the correct method is selected for the surface being cleaned.

 Cleaning

The act of cleaning is defined as removing visible dirt as well as germs and impurities from the surface. When attempting to kill or remove bacteria from a surface this is the primary step that should be used. First using soap (or detergent) and water to remove dirt/impurities from the surface before then applying a sanitiser or disinfectant. An initial clean of the surface will not remove or kill bacteria on its own but it will lower the risk of spreading infection.

 Sanitising

Sanitising a surface will reduce bacteria but will not kill 100% of bacteria. Sanitising is a little gentler than disinfecting and should be used for surfaces that do not typically come into contact with dangerous bacteria or when disinfecting is not possible (IE cutlery/cooking utensils). There are many sanitising products to purchase however a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water can also be used to sanitise.

Disinfecting

Disinfectant is used to inactivate or destroy bacteria. It is less effective than sterilising a surface but more effective than sanitising. Disinfectant should be used on surfaces where it is likely for bacteria to be such as high touch points as well as toilets. When disinfecting a surface, the surface should first be cleaned and then the disinfectant should be applied. Once the liquid disinfectant has been applied to the surface, it should be left on surface for the recommended amount of time (see products information).  

Sterilising

Sterilising a surface gives a result of the surface being 100% free of contaminants. Once a surface has been sterilised all bacteria has been removed/deactivated. There are several different methods of sterilisation, the most commonly used method is steam. Sterilisation is used in healthcare settings.

When cleaning an office it is important to ensure the risk of spreading an infection is reduced as much as possible as once an outbreak has begun it can be difficult to contain and therefore have a negative impact on the business.

When cleaning an office, the disinfection of surfaces should be considered especially high touch points such as the kitchen sink taps, cupboard handles, fridge handles, kettle, microwave, door handles, light switches, hot desks etc.