12 Dec The Difference Between Cleaning, Sanitizing & Disinfecting
Keeping your office spick and span is more essential than ever. As you seek to accomplish that mission, you’ll probably look for professional janitorial services. However, different service providers may use words such as cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. What’s the difference between these words? We’ll answer this pertinent question so you can find the right service for your business.
Cleaning: Removes Visible Dirt
Professional office cleaning focuses on removing dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces. It typically involves sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors, as well as dusting surfaces, emptying trash cans, and wiping down countertops. The primary distinction for cleaning lies in the fact that it removes visible dirt and impurities. Cleaning is a crucial step, but it doesn’t reduce the number of germs or kill them.
Sanitizing: Lowers Bacteria Levels
Sanitizing kicks things up a notch from cleaning because it reduces bacteria on surfaces and reduces the risk of infection. It involves the use of sanitizing agents, typically non-toxic and mild solutions. It’s essential for high-touch points like doorknobs, light switches, and shared equipment. Sanitizing differs from disinfecting as it doesn’t target viruses and fungi but reduces bacterial presence to a safe level.
Disinfecting: Eradicates Pathogens
Disinfecting goes the extra mile from sanitizing, aiming to eliminate germs, viruses, and bacteria from surfaces. It involves the use of powerful disinfectants, usually EPA-approved chemicals, to kill most pathogens. To be effective, disinfectants must sit on surfaces for a period indicated by the product guidelines. Disinfecting surpasses sanitizing in potency, as it targets a broader spectrum of pathogens, including those responsible for COVID-19.
You should understand the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting so you can choose the right service for your work space. Master Clean offers professional office cleaning services that makes your space look great. We also offer disinfecting services!