Several types of bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces for as long as 24 hours, and even longer. It is very important that surfaces and frequently touched areas be kept clean. Some cleaning products are great in keeping surfaces clean, but may not be so effective in killing 100 percent of all bacteria and viruses. It is common knowledge that viruses and bacteria are dangerous because they are carriers and spreaders of various forms of flu and diseases. It is very important that you learn which cleaning products to use that are best to kill both viruses and bacteria.
Cleaning products that are best for viruses and bacteria include disinfectants and sanitizers that contain bleach, or hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, quaternary ammonium compounds. Disinfectant products such as sprays and wipes are also very effective in killing both bacteria and viruses. Most cleaning products when used effectively can kill most germs, but not all. Using a disinfectant after cleaning kills at least 99.9 percent of germs, viruses, and bacteria.
Several cleaning agents are actually very effective in killing bacteria and viruses. Bleach can be mixed with hot water and used to wipe surfaces and frequently touched surfaces such as cabinets, toilets, doorknobs, sinks, and bathtubs. Disinfectants like the Lysol Disinfectant Spray available on Amazon.com kills up to 99.9 percent of germs. A mixture of hot water and vinegar will kill some bacteria but is not so effective for viruses. Warm water and hydrogen peroxide is also a very effective natural germ-killing solution that can be used at home.
How To Select An Effective Cleaning Product For Virus And Bacteria
Selecting the right product to protect you and your loved ones from germs, viruses, and bacteria can be quite confusing with the several available options. How can you determine if you need a sanitizer, disinfectant, regular soap, or antibacterial cleaning product?
According to experts, a cleaning product listed as a sanitizer would kill 99.9 percent of all germs, viruses, and bacteria that it comes in contact with. A cleaning product listed as a disinfectant is even better as it would kill 99.999 percent of bacteria, germs, or viruses. Products listed as antibacterial contain ingredients that slow down the growth of germs and bacteria. These ingredients can kill some bacteria and viruses, but such antibacterial products are really not better than regular washing soaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Lists Of Disinfectants To Use Against Covid-19?
Disinfectants and sanitizers offer great protection for the infamous Covid-19 virus when used correctly. Disinfectants and sanitizers are different from regular cleaning products. While cleaning products help to remove germs and bacteria, disinfectants actually kill the bacteria and virus. Some cleaning products effectively combine both cleaning and disinfecting solutions like the Clorox Clean-Up CloroxPro Disinfectant Cleaner With Bleach Spray.
However, all disinfectants are not designed the same way or with the same ingredients and strength. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and several other regulatory bodies worldwide issued lists of disinfectant and sanitizing products that have been confirmed effective protection against most viruses, and pathogens. You can check the list to know specific products to purchase.
What Is The Proper Way To Use Disinfectants?
It is true that disinfectants are effective germ and bacteria killers. However, it is important that they are used properly to achieve results. Disinfectants are hardly effective when used on dirty surfaces. They are not effective on grime or dirt.
Experts advise that hands and surfaces be first cleaned properly before disinfectants can be used to maximize results. After cleaning, the disinfectant is best able to come in contact with the virus and bacteria and kill it.
What Kills Germs In the Air?
There are several available cleaning products designed to clean surfaces and kill germs. But how can one kill bacteria, and viruses that are airborne? One of the most effective methods is to ensure the home or work area is well ventilated. With proper ventilation, fresh clean air regularly circulates to replace stale germ-filled air.
There are also effective air purifiers that can be bought and installed based on the intended space. Such technologies come equipped to circulate the air and kill airborne bacteria and viruses. Of course, there are also air sanitizer sprays like the Lysol Neutralizer Disinfectant Spray, available on Amazon.com, that kill odors and harmful bacteria in the air.
How Can Cleaning Products Be Used To Kill Coronavirus?
First, go for effective EPA-approved cleaning products. Check the product label to be sure. Also, check to know the type of virus and bacteria that the product is effective for. Do remember that most cleaning liquids evaporate so check labels to see how long the surfaces cleaned are required to remain wet for the product to be effective. Make sure you clean with soap and water and also disinfect after cleaning.
Take note that there actually is a difference between sanitizing and disinfecting. While both kill germs on contact, sanitizing can be done within a minute or two. Disinfecting, however, requires up to about 10 minutes to kill all bacteria, and germs, depending on the product. The results of disinfecting also last longer.
Can Hydrogen Peroxide Kill Virus And Bacteria?
According to several experts like the CDC, hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant. It works against a large variety of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Over-the-counter hydrogen products can be used directly from the bottle to sanitize non-porous and hard surfaces.
Using hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant is easy. Just spray on target surfaces. Allow to remain wet for at least a minute. Then wipe dry with a clean cloth. It is important to wear gloves to avoid staining your hands. Also, keep away from fabrics to avoid getting them stained.
Is Alcohol Or Vinegar Good For Bacteria And Virus?
Alcohol solutions containing at least 70 percent concentration of Isopropyl alcohol are very effective against several pathogens, bacteria, viruses, and even coronavirus. 100 percent solutions are too quick to evaporate to be very effective. Use solutions of 70 percent to wipe and disinfect surfaces.
Vinegar is however not a very good disinfectant against viruses. While being a good cleaning agent, vinegar is not seen by experts as an effective disinfectant. This is because it can only kill a few bacteria. It is actually non-effective against several viruses and bacteria. Vinegar solutions or cleaning products are also ineffective against coronavirus.
What Kills Germs On Fabrics?
Fabrics are non-porous surfaces and killing germs on them is much easier than on non-porous surfaces. Proper washing with most regular soaps and detergents will greatly reduce the number of germs and bacteria in fabrics. Using a washer, and dryer is also very effective.
There are also products designed to kill germs on fabrics. Some laundry sanitizers are added to the rinse cycle. There are also disinfectant sprays that can be used on bed sheets, upholstery, and throw pillows.
Conclusions
While there are several effective cleaning products, one has to take extra effort to get effective cleaning solutions that are best for viruses and bacteria. Bacteria and viruses are dangerous because they help spread diseases. There are several effective cleaning products that can be used effectively to protect and kill off these unwanted germs.
Be sure to check labels. Use the products properly. Clean surfaces first before using disinfectants. Do not combine both at the same time. Keep cleaning areas well ventilated in case of any emitted fumes. Use the right disinfectant products for the right surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide would be effective on a kitchen countertop, but wrong for fabric. Protect yourself and your loved ones.
