Once and for all: the difference between cleaning and disinfecting

We are still sometimes confronted with the fact that we don't actually know the difference between cleaning and disinfecting as well as we think we do. That's not so crazy, because they are similar after all. The small differences however do matter and are important to know. That's why today we'll enlighten you on the exact difference.

Cleaning

By cleaning we mean the removal of all visible dirt. Everything visible to the eye is removed in this process. This does not mean that all bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses are gone. Quite the contrary, in fact. To the eye, the surface or room appears clean and there is a fresh smell, but these pathogens are still there. Cleaning agents cause the dirt to become loose and wiped away. In fact, some cleaners don't remove dirt at all, such as bleach. This is something you want to avoid, of course.

Disinfection

With disinfection, you actually eliminate all pathogens. By dealing with these microorganisms, you reduce the risk of spreading these pathogens. With a cleaned surface, you properly tackle the invisible dirt. In doing so, you remove these bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses and ensure a hygienic surface. Disinfection is important for situations where a high level of prevention of infection is required. With disinfection, you achieve this goal.

First clean and then disinfect

The correct course of action is to clean first and then proceed to disinfection. Fortunately, we see this in practice a lot. By cleaning first, you ensure that you have already gotten rid of the dirt and grease. This ensures that the underlying pathogens are easier to reach and thus easier to remove.

Disinfection from Watter

Want to keep disinfecting, but get rid of all those chemicals? Then look into the Watter system. This in-situ solution produces a sustainable disinfectant. Using only water, salt and electricity, you produce a disinfectant with the active ingredient hypochlorous acid (HOCl) via electrolysis.