Full Guide on Residential Sanitizing & Disinfecting
In modern times, the terms sanitizing and disinfecting have gained significant attention and importance, especially with increased awareness of the need to fight viruses, bacteria, and other germs that can linger in the residential setting. However, the line between these two often gets blurred and homeowners are left unsure about how to proceed. The reason for this is because people tend to use the terms interchangeably. This only leads to confusion since they denote two very different approaches to house cleaning in Scotland, CT.
In today’s blog, we try to demystify the concepts of sanitizing and disinfecting and provide actionable tips to help you identify crucial parts of your living space that require proper disinfection.
What is the difference between sanitizing and disinfecting?
While both of these processes involve some type of cleaning, it’s important to understand their differences to determine which one of them to apply to different areas and surfaces in your home.
Sanitizing
According to the official health authorities, sanitizing reduces the number of germs on a given surface without necessarily eradicating them all. Its main goal is cleanliness and not sterilization. Sanitizing lowers the risk of infection from bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms by reducing their concentration and breaking the chain of infection, as per existing public health standards. The easy way to think about sanitizing is that it in many ways resembles cleaning more than it does disinfecting.
Disinfecting
Unlike sanitizing, disinfecting aims to not only reduce the number of contaminants to a safe level but to kill pathogens on surfaces. Since it aims to kill harmful microorganisms, disinfecting is particularly effective for high-touch surfaces and areas that are prone to spread contamination like bathing and cooking areas where germs are more likely to thrive.
What should I disinfect in my house?
While no two households are the same in terms of needs, preferences, lifestyles, and routines, there are a few specific areas where disinfecting is more recommended than simple sanitizing. Here are 5 areas you should disinfect, especially if one of your loved ones falls sick or the flu season is in full swing.
1. Doorknobs, pulls & handles
Every time someone enters the home, opens the fridge, or takes a fork before a meal, they have to touch doorknobs, appliance handles, or cabinet pulls. Usually made from plastic or metal, these surfaces can quickly turn into a breeding ground for pathogens if left untreated. Wipe them daily to keep them germ-free.
2. Light switches
Just like the above-mentioned surfaces, light switches are touched multiple times a day by most members of the household. Weekly disinfection should be enough to avoid worse-case scenarios but remember to address them daily when a member of the household falls sick.
3. Remote controls & electronics
TV remotes, gaming controllers, keyboards, computer mice, smartphones, and other gadgets we handle daily are well-known germ hotspots that people, unfortunately, forget to disinfect on a regular basis. Always wipe them down before use for optimal results.
4. Kitchen surfaces
The kitchen is one of the most beloved and busiest areas in most homes where people spend time, mingle, and enjoy their meals. Additionally, since it serves as a primary food storage and meal preparation area, it’s one of the prime spots for microorganisms. While thorough sanitation of the kitchen is all you need to keep it clean, you should look to disinfect cutting boards, faucets, and cabinet handles regularly just to be on the safe side.
5. Bathroom fixtures
Much like the kitchen area, bathrooms are residential water sources that harbor moisture and provide ideal conditions for mold and contaminants. From toilet seats, flush handles, sinks, and shower surfaces to toothbrush holders and soap dispensers that can surprisingly harbor a great number of germs, it’s important to disinfect these surfaces as often as you can.
Where can I find dependable house cleaning in Scotland, CT & beyond?
Whether you’re located in the center near Samuel Huntington Birthplace or on the outskirts of town, Orchid Maids has the tools, the personnel, and the tried-and-tested approach to keep your home germ-free and looking neat. Our background-checked and insured maids have garnered a reputation for diligence, attention to detail, and consistent service.
Whether you’d like to kick-start the year with a tidy house, want to stop the spread of influenza in your home, or would like to learn how to keep your indoor air fresh during the winter, our caring and attentive team has the answers you’re looking for.
Just give us a call or try our intuitive online booking form and we’ll be at your place without delay to apply the elbow grease and make sure everything is sanitary and spotless. Reach out to us today!