If you didn’t know, there is a difference between sanitizing and disinfecting. While both are important when it comes to keeping your spaces clean and yourself and others protected from germs, they should be used differently. And, you do not want to use the wrong products on your hands or surfaces.
Let’s go over the difference between sanitizing and disinfecting.
Germ Specific
When a sanitizer or disinfectant is made, it has to be tested against certain germs. A sanitizer may be able to find certain germs, whereas a disinfectant may be able to fight others. It is important to understand that a sanitizer or disinfectant may not be able to kill all or any germs that you are trying to get rid of.
Furthermore, a sanitizer can be used to simply remove bacteria from a surface, whereas disinfectants are used to kill certain germs.
Chemicals Vs Viruses
A sanitizer is made to kill bacteria found on a surface. This is why sanitizers are using on human skin, specifically hands. You don’t want bacteria lingering on your skin and you especially don’t want it to dry out your skin. On the other hand, disinfecting kills viruses and bacteria using harsh chemicals. This is ideal for countertops or surfaces that are frequently used.
When To Use Them
A sanitizer can be used on your skin since the chemicals are not lethal. Although they should not be consumed, the chemicals in them are not as harsh. So, using sanitizer to just keep your hands clean is ideal. Use disinfectants when you need to do a deep clean of your home or materials. These chemicals should not be consumed at all as they are poisonous. It is wise to use gloves when using disinfectants to protect yourself.
If you liked this blog, check out this one on, “5 Tips For Using Hand Sanitizers.”
