Difference Between Sanitising and Disinfecting: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to maintaining a clean and healthy environment, there are two terms that often come to mind – sanitising and disinfecting. However, these terms are not interchangeable, and each has a specific role in the cleaning process. Understanding the difference between sanitising and disinfecting can help you choose the right cleaning method for your business or home. Let’s dive in to explore these terms in detail.

Understanding Sanitising

Sanitising is a process that reduces the number of bacteria present by 99.9% on inanimate objects to make them safe for contact. It’s often used in environments that require a high level of hygiene, such as kitchens, restaurants, bathrooms, and childcare facilities. However, while sanitising effectively reduces bacteria, it may not kill all viruses or fungi.

Sanitisers work by destroying the cell wall of microbes or interfering with their metabolism. It’s a process often used for items that come into contact with skin, such as utensils, toys, and surfaces. It’s important to note that sanitising is a less aggressive process than disinfecting.

The Role of Disinfecting

On the other hand, disinfecting is a process that kills or deactivates all organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, on an inanimate object. Unlike sanitisers, disinfectants are not always safe for skin contact and are typically used on non-porous surfaces like countertops, door handles, and electronic devices.

Disinfectants work by destroying the cell wall of microbes or interfering with their metabolism, much like sanitisers. However, the critical difference is that disinfectants have a broader spectrum of kill. They are designed to kill all organisms, not just reduce their number.

Sanitising vs. Disinfecting: Which is Better?

Neither sanitising nor disinfecting is inherently better than the other. Instead, the choice between the two largely depends on the situation and the level of cleanliness required. For example, in a hospital or healthcare setting where harmful pathogens can be highly prevalent, disinfecting would be the preferred method to ensure complete elimination of pathogens.

In contrast, in a home or office setting, regular sanitising can be sufficient for maintaining a safe and clean environment. It’s important to remember that both methods are effective when used correctly and in the right context.

The Importance of Professional Cleaning Services

While understanding the difference between sanitising and disinfecting is crucial, it’s equally important to ensure that these processes are carried out effectively. This is where professional cleaning services like Assured Cleaning come in.

At Assured Cleaning, we offer both sanitising and disinfecting services to suit different needs and environments. Our team of experienced professionals uses high-quality products and adopts the best practices in the industry to ensure a thorough and effective cleaning process.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sanitising and disinfecting is fundamental in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. By knowing when to sanitise and when to disinfect, you can provide a safer, cleaner space for your employees, clients, or family. And when in doubt, seeking the help of professionals like Assured Cleaning can ensure the job is done right. After all, a clean environment is a healthy environment.

Remember, with Assured Cleaning, you can be confident that your cleaning needs are in capable, expert hands. Contact us today to learn more about our sanitising and disinfecting services.