Cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting are often used as if they were the same thing. They are not, and knowing the difference helps you ask for the right service.
Cleaning
Cleaning removes dirt, dust and many germs from surfaces using soap or detergent and water. It does not necessarily kill germs, but it lowers their numbers and is essential before sanitizing or disinfecting can work properly.
Sanitizing
Sanitizing reduces germs on a surface to a lower level considered safe by public health standards. It is common on food-contact surfaces, such as break room counters.
Disinfecting
Disinfecting uses registered chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. Products need to stay wet on the surface for a set contact time to work, which is the step most often skipped.
What your office needs
- Clean all surfaces routinely.
- Sanitize food-contact areas in kitchens and break rooms.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces and restrooms, more often during cold and flu season or after an illness.
Our disinfection service can be added to your regular cleaning or booked on its own.