What’s the Difference Between Sanitizing and Disinfecting?
You can think of sanitizing as reducing germs and disinfecting as killing germs.
Sanitizing reduces germs and bacteria on a surface to a safe level as defined by public health standards. Sanitizing is less aggressive than disinfecting and is usually used for food-contact surfaces like kitchen counters, cutting boards and dishes. Sanitizers are available in spray form and wipes. Other methods of sanitization include diluted bleach solutions and dishwasher heat cycles.
Disinfecting works at a higher level to kill germs, bacteria and viruses, like those that cause a cold or the flu. Disinfecting is commonly used on surfaces exposed to illnesses including bathroom surfaces, doorknobs and light switches. The EPA registers products as sanitizers and disinfectants, typically distinguishing them by effectiveness.
Before sanitizing or disinfecting, the first step you need to take 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 to kill the germs, virus, bacteria, etc.
When Should I Sanitize?
Sanitize for lower-risk areas or food-contact surfaces when the use of harsher chemicals isn’t ideal. Some examples include:
- Kitchen counters
- Cutting boards
- Dishes and utensils
- Dining tables
- Grocery carts
- Children's (non-porous) toys and highchairs
- Non-porous pet toys
When Should I Disinfect?
Disinfect higher-risk surfaces and/or when illness is a concern. Some examples include:
- Bathroom sinks and counters
- Toilets and toilet handles
- Doorknobs
- Light switches
- Remote controls
- Phones
- Keyboards
- Handrails
- Trash cans
- Any surface exposed to bodily fluids
Always 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.
Types of Disinfectants and Sanitizers
Disinfectants come in many forms including liquids, wipes, mists, foams and cream. Disinfecting wipes are portable, convenient and easy to use. Liquid is good when you need a large quantity. A spray delivers a broad arc to cover a large surface area. Disinfectant foam adheres to surfaces well and gets into difficult-to-reach areas.
Liquid sanitizers are the most common form (this includes ready-to-use spray bottles). Other forms include sanitizing wipes (convenient for quick surface cleaning), foam sanitizers (often used for sanitizing hands) and aerosol sprays which are ideal for larger surface areas.
DIY 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.
Bleach and Water as a Sanitizer
A bleach and water combination can sanitize and disinfect depending on the strength of the mixture. To sanitize food-contact surfaces like kitchen counters, food prep tables, cutting boards and high chairs, follow these directions:
How to safely use bleach as a sanitizer:
- Clean the surface with soap and warm water first.
- Apply the bleach solution (1 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per 4 cups of water). Be sure to use regular (5-6% unscented bleach).
- Let solution sit for at least one minute.
- Allow surface to air dry (or rinse with potable water if required for food-contact surfaces).
Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia.
Bleach and Water as a Disinfectant
To use bleach as a disinfectant, you’ll need to use a stronger bleach mix. This mixture can be used on bathroom surfaces, doorknobs, light switches and trash cans. Follow these instructions:
- Clean the surface with soap and warm water first.
- Apply the bleach solution (4 teaspoons of bleach per 4 cups of water).
- Let the solution sit for 5 minutes (or refer to CDC guidelines).
Alcohol as a Disinfectant
Alcohol can be used to make a DIY surface disinfectant spray, ideal for countertops, doorknobs, light switches and bathroom surfaces. Follow these instructions:
- Mix ingredients (2/3 cup of isopropyl alcohol, 1/3 cup of water) in a spray bottle.
- Spray surface until visibly wet.
- Let it sit at least 30 seconds (preferably 1 minute) before wiping it off.
To disinfect properly, the alcohol must be 70% or above. Do not use mixture on varnished wood, some plastic surfaces or delicate finishes.
Cleaning Tools That Help with Sanitizing and Disinfecting
Having the right tools makes sanitizing and disinfecting more effective and efficient. Here are some commonly used tools and materials you may need.
- Sponges: Useful for cleaning prior to sanitizing or disinfecting. Sponges should be sanitized frequently or replaced, as they can harbor bacteria. To sanitize a sponge, dampen and microwave it for one minute or run it through a dishwasher cycle.
- Mops: Ideal for disinfecting large areas, like floors. Microfiber mop heads are especially effective at trapping dirt and microbes. Be sure to wash reusable mop heads after each use and allow them to dry completely before reusing.
- Microfiber Cloths: Great for applying disinfectants and removing debris during cleaning. Wash after each use in hot water and avoid using fabric softener, which can reduce absorbency.
- Paper Towels or Wipes: Convenient for high-risk messes, such as in bathrooms or medical settings, paper towels and wipes reduce the chance of cross-contamination because they’re disposed after use.
- Rubber Gloves: Ideal for protecting skin from harsh chemicals and contamination. Use separate gloves for bathrooms versus kitchens, when possible, and remember to wash your hands after removing them.
Using clean tools — and replacing or cleaning them regularly — is just as important as choosing the right sanitizer or disinfectant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sanitizing and Disinfecting
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces.
Does Rubbing Alcohol Sanitize or Disinfect?
Rubbing alcohol is used to sanitize and disinfect and it can kill most everyday germs including bacteria, viruses and fungi. It’s less effective against non-enveloped viruses, including the stomach bug. To use it as a disinfectant, opt for rubbing alcohol made with 70% isopropyl alcohol, which is most effective for disinfecting. Apply enough to fully wet surfaces and let it sit for at least 30 seconds. Always use it in a well-ventilated area.
Should I Sanitize or Disinfect First?
Generally speaking, you’ll either sanitize or disinfect, not both. The method you use depends on your needs. Sanitizing reduces bacteria and germs to an acceptable level, while disinfecting actually kills viruses along with germs and bacteria. In either case, you should clean first with soap and water.
How Long Should I Leave Disinfectant on a Surface?
Most products require 30 seconds to 10 minutes of contact time. Always check the label for directions on use. If wiped off too soon, a product may not work effectively.
Can I Mix Disinfectants?
No. Mixing products, especially bleach plus ammonia or vinegar, can create noxious fumes. This is the number one cause of creating dangerous fumes. Always follow label instructions, wear gloves and consider a mask if using strong disinfectants.
Fundamentals of Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting
Sanitizing reduces germs to safe levels, while disinfecting kills germs, bacteria and viruses. Always clean surfaces first, then choose the right product based on the area you’re treating — sanitize food-contact and lower-risk surfaces, and disinfect high-touch or high-risk areas, especially when illness is a concern. Be sure to follow label directions, including proper contact time, for safe and effective results.