While often used interchangeably, the words “Sanitize” and “Disinfect” have very different, and very precise meanings. Relatedly, mistakenly using one in place of the other could not only lead to confusion, but also potentially dangerous circumstances.

• Sanitizing is the act of reducing the number of germs on a surface to a level considered safe by public health codes, through the use of a “Sanitizer.” Sanitizers are EPA registered antimicrobial products that are proven to safely and effectively reduce the quantity of microorganisms on inanimate surfaces. The EPA stipulates that Non-Food Contact Sanitizers must eliminate no less than 99.9% of harmful bacteria on Hard surfaces within 10 minutes, while Food Contact Sanitizers must eliminate no less than 99.999% of harmful bacteria on Hard surfaces within 60 seconds. Note that Sanitizers are not required to kill viruses.
• Disinfecting is the act of eliminating the majority of germs on inanimate surfaces through the use of a Disinfectant. Disinfectants are EPA registered antimicrobial products that are required, and have been proven to eliminate at least 99.9% of both bacteria and viruses on Hard surfaces.

So, which should you do, and when? “Sanitized” signifies a surface that is clean and largely germ-free. It’s also the FDA, USDA, and nationwide Public Health standard for the food production, food service, and restaurant industries. In other words, it’s a very high level of cleanliness and germ reduction, and one that likely exceeds the needs and expectations of most people and organizations.

However, there are numerous surfaces that should always be disinfected, and various environmental conditions that can make disinfection necessary for many others. Disinfection should always be the goal for Hard, High-Contact Surfaces such as light switches, doorknobs; countertops; desktops & drawer pulls; kitchen and bathroom cabinet handles; sinks and toilets. Disinfection is also a must for Hard Surfaces in medical settings, as well as in any home, workplace or other space during a pandemic or when someone is ill, illness prone, or has a compromised immune system. More surfaces to disinfect.