The words ‘cleaning’ and ‘disinfecting’ get tossed around a lot. Most people think that cleaning and disinfecting are the same and tend to skip over the latter step. However, these two procedures actually serve distinctly different purposes and should always be put into regular practice together. Knowing the differences can help you understand how to use certain products safely to keep your home clean AND disinfected.
What is cleaning? Clean surfaces vs clean air
Cleaning is an important first step to remove dirt, debris and dust particles on surfaces. Before disinfecting, surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned using soap or detergent as this can help to significantly reduce the amount of germs on a surface, but it doesn’t necessarily destroy or kill bacteria. While it may seem spotless and visibly clean, there may still be traces of invisible germs that lurk behind. Yes, even after the most intense scrub-down!
Similarly, the air also contains irritants such as dust, smoke, pollen and dander. Using an air purifier can help to filter out pollutants and potential allergens from indoor air. But just like a surface, the air can seem clean but still harbour high levels of germs.
What is disinfecting? Surface disinfection vs air disinfection
Germs are readily transmitted via direct contact with a contaminated surface. To prevent the further spread of germs, the process of disinfection eliminates any remaining bacteria found on surfaces. It’s advised to regularly disinfect high-touch areas and objects including the kitchen countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and toys.
When using surface disinfectants, always check the label to ensure that it’s safe for home use, especially if you have young children in the family. Many household disinfectants use strong chemicals, which can cause serious harm if your child is exposed to toxic residue left behind on common objects and toys. To disinfect safely, we recommend using a non-toxic disinfectant spray like the BioCair Pocket Spray. Suitable to be used around children, it’s tested and proven to contain no harmful chemicals and effectively eliminate bacteria and germs.
Apart from surfaces, there are also bacteria and germs living in the air that could lead to airbone transmission. of highly contagious diseases. These exhaled droplets can quickly get dispersed into the air when an infected individual breathes, coughs or sneezes, causing potentially severe infections if inhaled by another person. When left suspended in the air for prolonged periods of time, these particles can also land on nearby surfaces, thereby increasing the risk of exposure all over again. To ensure the air you breathe remains clean and free of germs, consider air disinfection to effectively kill all forms of bacteria, viruses, fungus and spores from the air.
For air disinfection at home, use the BioCair air disinfection machines to reduce the chances of airborne transmission. Made to be used with the BioCair Air Purifying Solution., the disinfection machine generates a form of dry-mist disinfectant that effectively eliminates 99.999% of airborne pathogens. Not only does it rid the air of harmful bacteria, it also helps to wipe out any lingering surface germs when the mist settles. Ideally, it’s best to operate it for at least an hour per day on a daily basis, and in common areas of the home such as the living room and children’s playroom.
Clean, and then disinfect
Routine cleaning should always be followed by regular disinfection to keep your home safe from surface and airborne pathogens. Now more than ever, cleaning and disinfecting both play equally important roles in ensuring tip-top hygiene levels. Doing so helps to prevent the spread of bacteria and lower the risk of infection at home, so you and your family can stay clean, healthy and germ-free.
