Cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing are three terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to three different processes that serve different purposes. Understanding the difference between these terms is crucial, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Cleaning
Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces. This is typically done using soap, water, and a cleaning agent, such as a detergent. Cleaning is important because it helps to maintain a clean and tidy environment, and it can also help to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. However, cleaning alone does not necessarily kill all of the germs and bacteria on a surface, which is where disinfecting and sanitizing come in.
Disinfecting
Disinfecting is the process of using chemicals to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces. This is typically done using a disinfectant, which is a chemical that is designed to kill specific types of germs and bacteria. Disinfecting is important because it helps to reduce the risk of infection and disease transmission. During the COVID-19 pandemic, disinfecting has become a critical component of infection control, as it can help to kill the virus on surfaces and reduce the risk of transmission.
Sanitizing
Sanitizing is similar to disinfecting, but it refers specifically to the process of reducing the number of germs and bacteria on a surface to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. Sanitizing is typically done using a sanitizing agent, which is a chemical that is designed to kill a broad range of germs and bacteria. Sanitizing is important in settings where there is a high risk of infection or disease transmission, such as in hospitals or food preparation facilities.
Which one do you need?
The choice between cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing depends on the specific situation. In general, cleaning is important for maintaining a clean and tidy environment, disinfecting is important for reducing the risk of infection and disease transmission, and sanitizing is important for reducing the number of germs and bacteria to a safe level. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to prioritize disinfecting, especially in high-risk settings such as hospitals, schools, and public transportation.
In conclusion, cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing are three different processes that serve different purposes. Understanding the difference between these terms is crucial, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. By prioritizing disinfecting and sanitizing in high-risk settings, we can help to reduce the risk of infection and disease transmission and keep ourselves and our communities safe.
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