To the average person on the floor, there are just things to clean with. However, cleaning and sanitization are very different, and it’s important to recognize this and ensure folks are properly educated. I can’t count how many audits I’ve had where this became a tripping point.

The primary difference between a cleaning solution and a disinfectant solution lies in their purposes and the outcomes they achieve.

Cleaning Solutions

Purpose: Cleaning solutions are designed to remove dirt, dust, grime, and impurities from surfaces. This process involves using soap, detergents, or other cleaning agents combined with water and physical action (e.g., scrubbing) to lift and wash away contaminants.

Effectiveness: Cleaning physically removes germs from surfaces but does not necessarily kill them. It reduces the number of germs and prepares the surface for further treatment, such as sanitizing or disinfecting.

Examples: Common cleaning agents include all-purpose cleaners, dish soap, and glass cleaners.

Disinfectant Solutions

Purpose: Disinfectant solutions are specifically formulated to kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms on surfaces, including bacteria and viruses. They contain chemical agents that are effective against a wide range of pathogens.

Effectiveness: When used correctly, disinfectants are designed to kill nearly 100% of the germs listed on their labels. They are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and must meet stringent efficacy standards.

Examples: Common disinfectants include bleach solutions, alcohol-based solutions, and products containing quaternary ammonium compounds (QUATS).

Here is a table comparing the key differences between cleaning solutions and disinfectant solutions:

Aspect	Cleaning Solutions	Disinfectant Solutions
Purpose	Remove dirt, dust, grime, and impurities	Kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms
Effectiveness	Physically removes germs but does not necessarily kill them	Kills nearly 100% of germs listed on their labels when used correctly
Examples	All-purpose cleaners, dish soap, glass cleaners	Bleach solutions, alcohol-based solutions, QUATS
Function	Reduces the number of germs	Kills or inactivates germs
Usage	First step in the cleaning process	Applied after cleaning to kill remaining germs
Regulation	Not always regulated by the EPA unless they have sanitizing or disinfecting claims	Must be registered with the EPA and meet specific efficacy standards
Contact Time	Not applicable	Requires specific contact time (usually 5-10 minutes)
Safety	Generally safer, fewer precautions needed	May require precautions such as gloves or ventilation
Impact on Equipment	Less likely to cause wear and tear on equipment	Can be harsh on surfaces and equipment, potentially causing damage over time