What’s the Difference Between Sanitizing and Disinfecting?
The difference between sanitizing and disinfecting is a source of bewilderment for many people.
Sanitizing reduces the level of germs and bacteria on a surface to a safe level by removing them or, in some cases, killing them. To be classified as a sanitizer, a product needs to remove up to 99.9% of microorganisms (germs), as directed by the Environmental Protection Agency. You can sanitize various items by boiling (small items like toys), steaming (floors, countertops, etc.) or consider using a weaker bleach solution.
Disinfecting works at a higher level to kill germs, bacteria and viruses, like those that cause a cold or the flu. Disinfectants have to kill 99.999% of microorganisms to be classified as a disinfectant.
However, even before sanitizing or disinfecting takes place, the first thing you need to do is to clean, especially in the kitchen. Cleaning consists of wiping down surfaces with hot soapy water. Cleaning removes surface dirt and grime. It doesn’t kill bacteria, but it primes the surface for sanitizing or disinfecting.
Whichever product you use for sanitizing or disinfecting, be sure to read and follow the product label instructions. Take note of the contact time, which tells you how long the product needs to have contact with the surface in order to kill the germs, virus, bacteria, etc. If you don’t wait long enough, you’re likely not killing germs, viruses, etc.
When Should I Sanitize?
Sanitizing is something you’ll likely do more of than disinfecting. Sanitize items that won’t require strong chemicals or things that aren’t normally exposed to dangerous bacteria. In the kitchen, however, you should sanitize any hard surfaces that may have come into contact with raw poultry or meat or their juices. Sanitize the countertops, utensils, cabinet knobs, sink, faucet, appliances etc. Also sanitize children’s toys (especially if it’s something children can put in their mouths), as well as objects or surfaces that they’ll use. Don’t forget your pet’s toys, too. Animals have a habit of putting their toys in their mouths so make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
When Should I Disinfect?
Disinfecting should be done anytime someone in the home is recovering from an illness, especially areas that the person has touched. It’s also a good idea to disinfect if someone has a weakened immune system and is at a higher risk of getting sick. Throughout your home, disinfect any high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, etc.
You should wear rubber gloves when sanitizing or disinfecting. Ensure good ventilation when using disinfectants by using a fan or opening a window for better air circulation.
Forms of Disinfectants
Disinfectants come in many forms, including liquid, disinfecting wipes, spray and foam. Disinfecting wipes are portable, convenient and easy to use. Liquid is good when you need a large quantity. A spray delivers a broad arc of spray to cover a large surface area. Disinfectant foam adheres to surfaces well and gets into difficult-to-reach areas.
Homemade Sanitizers and Disinfectants
With just a couple of ingredients, you can make your own sanitizers and disinfectants. Note that bleach works both as a sanitizer and a disinfectant. The difference is in the amount of bleach that’s used. A stronger bleach solution is used to disinfect.
With any sanitizer or disinfectant, do a spot test in an inconspicuous area of the surface you intend to use the spray on before sanitizing or disinfecting. Don’t use a bleach-based sanitizer or disinfectant on wood or stainless steel or some fabrics.
Make sure you label your spray bottles so that you don’t unintentionally mix chemicals. As with all chemicals, keep out of reach of children.
Sanitizers
Bleach and Water #1: Mix 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach and one quart of warm water. Add to a clean spray bottle. Spray on the surface and let it air dry.
Bleach and Water #2: For a larger quantity, mix 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach for every gallon of warm water. Spray on the surface and allow it to air dry.
Isopropyl Alcohol, Distilled Water and Hydrogen Peroxide: In a clean spray bottle, add 1-2/3 cup of 99% isopropyl alcohol, 1/4 cup distilled water (in lieu of distilled water you can use water that’s been boiled and cooled), 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional). Mix well, spray on surface and let it sit for one minute before wiping with a damp cloth.
Unscented liquid chlorine bleach is safe for use on surfaces you use for food prep and serving.
Disinfectants
Bleach and Water #1: Mix 4 teaspoons of unscented liquid bleach per quart of warm water. Add to a clean spray bottle. Spray and allow to air dry.
Bleach and Water #2: For a larger quantity, mix 1/3 cup of unscented liquid bleach per gallon of warm water. Spray and allow to air dry.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Water: Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Add to a clean, dark, light-filtering spray bottle. Spray generously on the surface, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe with a clean cloth.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Distilled White Vinegar: Add 3% hydrogen peroxide in one dark, light-filtering spray bottle. Add distilled white vinegar to another spray bottle. First, liberally spray the surface with peroxide and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping with a clean cloth. Next, generously spray the surface with vinegar, let it rest for 5 minutes and then wipe with another clean cloth.
Isopropyl Alcohol, Water and Essential Oils: In a spray bottle mix 1/2 cup of 70% isopropyl alcohol, 3/4 cup of water and 15 drops each of lavender essential oil and lemon essential oil. Shake well to incorporate. This solution can be sprayed directly on hard or soft surfaces. Let it sit for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then wipe with a clean cloth.
Never mix the peroxide and vinegar in the same bottle as this could create peracetic acid which can be toxic. Store the spray bottle with peroxide in a cool, dark place so that it doesn’t lose its effectiveness.
Does Rubbing Alcohol Sanitize or Disinfect?
Rubbing alcohol is used to both sanitize and disinfect. In larger amounts, it disinfects by killing bacteria, fungi, viruses and more.
Should You Sanitize or Disinfect First?
Sanitizing and disinfecting aren’t used in tandem. Generally speaking, you’ll either sanitize or disinfect. Which method you use depends on your needs. Sanitizing reduces bacteria and germs down to an acceptable level, while disinfecting actually kills viruses along with germs and bacteria.
How Do I Sanitize My Kitchen?
Before sanitizing your kitchen, you first need to clean with warm soapy water. Dry with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel. After cleaning, it’s time to sanitize. If using a commercial sanitizer, follow the label instructions. When sanitizing with bleach and water, spray on the surface liberally and allow to air dry.