Cleaning Vs. Sanitizing

People often use the word "clean" synonymously with the word "sanitize." However, the terms have significantly different meanings. Using these terms or procedures interchangeably can mislead others in thinking something's safe when, in fact, it isn't.

Cleaning

Cleaning simply means making something look nice, clean and organized. You can clean a room by picking up toys, vacuuming the floor and dusting the furniture. You clean a counter by wiping it down with your dishrag. Afterward, your room and counter are "clean."

Sanitizing

Sanitizing, on the other hand, means disinfecting from germs, bacteria and other microorganisms. To sanitize something, use a cleaning agent such as bleach or antibacterial cleaners; soap and water usually aren't sufficient. Always follow manufacturer's directions when using any product. Double check that you're using it correctly and on the right type of surface.

Example to Differentiate

When you stay in a hospital room as a patient, you hope that it's not only clean (as it should look), but also sanitized. A plethora of patients have been there before you, each with their own diseases and germs. Bodily fluids have surely touched the floor, desk and phone, just to name a few surfaces. Rather than using water and a rag to merely clean the room, the orderly should use a disinfectant cleaner to sanitize the room. The same goes for a doctor's instruments. They should be sanitized---free from bacteria and germs---before he uses them on you. After all, your life and safety are at risk.

Where to Clean

Some things are okay to clean. It's okay to just clean your living, dining and bed rooms. It's okay to clean your yard and car. It's okay to wipe up juice with just a wet rag. Cleaning your dishes with dish soap also sanitizes them, as does washing your hands with antibacterial soap.

Where to Sanitize

Sanitize your counter tops each day. While people commonly wipe them with a dishrag, that rag has germs on it. You especially need to sanitize after dealing with raw meat and eggs. Also sanitize your bathroom, specifically around your toilet and sink, which are breeding grounds for bacteria. Do this a couple times a week. On occasion, sanitize your door knobs with a spray and even sanitize toys that small children put in their mouths. Do this especially if you have had a sick person in the home. Products are available designed just for this purpose (e.g. Clorox Anywhere). Sanitize any bodily spills such as blood and urine. You can use vinegar for areas of the home where using a cleaner isn't appropriate or may damage surfaces, such as a rug or mattress. Always test in an inconspicuous spot first.

References

• Cleaning vs. Sanitizing
• It's Clean, But Is it Sanitized?