Two different jobs
Cleaning uses detergent and water to remove dirt, grease, organic matter and most germs from a surface. Disinfection uses a chemical or process to kill or inactivate many of the germs left behind.
Why you clean first
Disinfectants are weakened by dirt and organic matter, and they can't reach germs hidden underneath it. That is why the usual approach is a two-step clean: clean with detergent, then disinfect. Some products are combined detergent-disinfectants designed to do both — follow the label.
Contact time
Every disinfectant has a contact time: the length of time the surface must stay wet for the product to work. If you spray and wipe straight away, the disinfectant may not have time to act. Check the label and allow the full time.
When do you need to disinfect?
Routine cleaning with detergent is enough for many low-risk surfaces. Disinfection is typically added for bathrooms, high-touch surfaces in care settings, body fluid spills, and during outbreaks — as directed by your workplace's procedures.
Safety
- Never mix chemicals — some combinations release toxic gases.
- Use the dilution on the label; stronger is not better.
- Wear the PPE specified on the label or safety data sheet.
- Keep products in labelled containers, out of reach of children and vulnerable people.