You're Likely Using Disinfectant Spray And Wipes Wrong. Here's Why

Whether you're wiping away the remnants of raw meat from a countertop, spraying furniture after a virus has swept through your home, or disinfecting the porcelain throne, no cleaning products are quite as handy as disinfectant sprays and wipes. These products are easy to use and effective at killing germs, but many people miss critical steps when using them. For example, disinfectants are not cleaners, making it vital you remove dirt and grime from a surface before applying them. They also need to sit visibly wet for a specific amount of time to kill viruses and bacteria before they're wiped away, or they won't have enough time to do their job.

The secret to a germ-free home is right on the label of your favorite cleaner, listing times for sanitization versus disinfection. And it is important to note that sanitizing and disinfecting are not the same process. Sanitizing reduces bacteria on a surface to a safe level, while disinfecting kills bacteria and viruses. If you're cleaning up after a wave of illnesses or dealing with a heavily contaminated surface, disinfection is the better option. Many disinfectants can often sanitize in as little as 30 seconds, but may need a dwell time of up to 10 minutes to fully disinfect, depending on the product.

While it's okay to spray disinfectant on furniture, bookbags, or other worrisome items, even if they haven't been pre-cleaned or made it through the laundry, you shouldn't spray or wipe disinfecting solutions on a heavily soiled surface. If a surface is visibly dirty, clean it first with soap and water, then apply your disinfectant. High-traffic areas often benefit from disinfectant wipes, but always check the label to ensure the surface stays wet long enough to kill germs, which can range from 3 to 10 minutes. Once the product has set for the recommended time, wipe away excess if needed or allow it to air dry, depending on the instructions.

Disinfectants and bleach are household cleaners you should never mix together, so use one or the other to wipe away germs. Always read the product label to ensure it's safe for the surface you're disinfecting. For example, while many disinfecting products are safe for sealed or painted wood surfaces, they may damage unsealed wood. When in doubt, do a spot test.