Since COVID-19 began making headlines and causing states to shut down non-essential businesses temporarily, many people have increased their cleaning efforts. Whether you own a business or just want to keep your family safe, knowing the proper disinfecting techniques can keep germs away. Use the following health care guide to review the differences between cleaning and disinfecting.

Cleaning

Cleaning involves removing clutter, organizing shelves and drawers, and wiping down surfaces to remove dust, grime, dirt, and other particles. The tools typically used during cleaning projects include feather dusters, paper towels, vacuums, and mops. Cleaning creates neat, organized results in households and businesses but does not involve eliminating germs and bacteria.

While some cleaning activities involve soap and water to remove germs and subsequently reduce their numbers, other practices — such as wiping down a kitchen counter with a wet rag — simply relocates them, especially if the towel isn’t fresh and harbors bacteria.

Disinfecting

Disinfecting involves not only removing germs but also destroying them. Many health services use disinfecting practices to eliminate harmful bacteria from commonly-used surfaces, such as doorknobs, bathroom sinks, computer keyboards, and kitchen counters, to impede the spread of disease. Even if disinfecting does not kill the germs, it lowers their numbers significantly or makes them unable to multiply.

Strong chemicals such as bleach, rubbing alcohol, or ammonia may be used to disinfect homes and businesses, as well as non-toxic options like white vinegar and lemon juice. Disinfecting also requires using fresh paper towels or clean cloths that are free of bacteria.

Buildings that host at-risk communities — including hospitals and retirement homes — may additionally call for technicians to wear protective clothing and gear, including goggles, shoe covers, latex gloves, and head coverings to prevent the spread of disease further. Cleanroom workers, or those who keep compounding drug rooms bacteria-free, must wear protective garments and accessories. 

Your health and wellness remain a top priority at Bayside Community Hospital, the medical center serving Chambers County and the Gulf Coast of Texas since 1950. Offering physical therapy, surgery, and emergency room assistance, among other health care services, this dedicated team will help you feel your best. Call (409) 267-3143 to make an appointment or learn more about their health care services online. Like their Facebook page for the latest wellness tips and community updates.