How to Disinfect Your Home Properly, Not Just Clean It.
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How to Disinfect Your Home Properly, Not Just Clean It.
Cleaning and disinfecting are related, but they are not the same thing.
Cleaning removes visible dirt, grease and residue. Disinfecting uses a suitable product to reduce microorganisms on a surface when used according to its instructions. In most homes, cleaning first is an important step because dirt can interfere with the disinfecting process.
Which surfaces should you disinfect?
You do not necessarily need to disinfect every surface every day. Focus on areas that are touched frequently or need extra attention, including:
- Door handles and light switches
- Toilet flushes and bathroom handles
- Taps and sink fixtures
- Worktops and dining tables
- Fridge and cupboard handles
- Remote controls and shared devices
- Bins and bin lids
- Pet-feeding areas, using a suitable pet-safe routine
Choose products based on the surface and always check whether rinsing is required, particularly on food-contact surfaces.
What you’ll need
-
A suitable disinfectant, such as
3 Brujas Disinfectant 1L - Disposable or washable cleaning cloths
- Warm water for the initial clean
- Gloves if recommended by the product label
- A clean cloth for rinsing or drying where required
Keep separate cloths for the bathroom, kitchen and general household areas. Wash reusable cloths thoroughly after use.
How to disinfect a surface
1. Remove visible dirt first
Wipe away crumbs, grease, dust and other residue using a suitable cleaner. If the surface is heavily soiled, clean it thoroughly before applying disinfectant.
2. Apply the disinfectant as directed
Read the label before use. Some products are ready to use, while others need dilution. Do not assume that a stronger mixture is more effective.
Apply enough product to cover the surface as instructed, without flooding areas that could be damaged by excess moisture.
3. Respect the contact time
Disinfectants need to remain wet on a surface for the period stated on the packaging. Wiping the product away immediately may not allow it to work as intended.
This is one reason it helps to work on one small area at a time.
4. Rinse food-contact surfaces when required
Kitchen worktops, chopping areas and tables may need to be rinsed with clean water after disinfecting. Follow the label and the care guidance for the surface.
5. Allow the area to dry
Leave the surface to air dry where suitable. For items that need to be used immediately, follow the product instructions about wiping or drying.
Cleaning and disinfecting the bathroom
Start with the least dirty areas and work towards the toilet and floor. Clean the sink, taps, handles and other high-touch areas before treating the toilet.
Do not use the same cloth for the toilet and sink. If you are cleaning mould, limescale or heavy residue, use a product intended for that purpose and follow its safety instructions rather than repeatedly applying a general disinfectant.
Important disinfectant safety advice
Never mix disinfectant with bleach, acids, ammonia or another cleaning product. Mixing household chemicals can create dangerous fumes.
Keep the room ventilated, store the product safely and keep it away from children, pets and food. If the packaging gives specific warnings about skin, eyes or inhalation, follow them carefully.
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