High-touch surfaces like door handles, light switches, and shared equipment can harbor germs for extended periods, increasing the risk of illness. Effective disinfection involves five key steps:
- Remove Debris and Pre-Clean: Clear visible dirt and dust to ensure disinfectants work effectively.
- Wash with Detergent: Use warm water and mild detergent to remove grease and grime.
- Apply Disinfectant: Use an EPA-approved disinfectant, ensuring surfaces stay wet for the required contact time.
- Wait for Contact Time: Allow the disinfectant to remain on the surface as specified on the label.
- Rinse and Dry (if needed): Rinse surfaces if required, and let them air dry completely.
Regularly disinfecting high-touch areas reduces the spread of germs and helps maintain a healthier environment. Always follow product instructions, wear protective gear, and clean frequently touched surfaces daily.
Learn the Cleaning & Disinfecting Process
Getting Ready to Disinfect
Preparation is key to making the disinfection process effective and safe. By organizing the right equipment and supplies ahead of time, you set yourself up for success.
Get Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Start with disposable gloves – they’re your first layer of protection. Choose gloves that fit well, such as nitrile, vinyl, or latex (if you don’t have allergies). Keep a few extra pairs handy in case you need them.
Face coverings are crucial to shield yourself from fumes and splashes. A cloth or surgical mask works for everyday disinfectants, but stronger solutions may require an N95 respirator for added protection.
Safety goggles are a must when using certain disinfectants, especially those with bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Check the product label – if it recommends goggles, opt for wraparound styles instead of regular prescription glasses.
Before putting on your PPE, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to avoid transferring germs to your equipment. Once the cleaning is done and the PPE is removed, wash your hands again for at least 20 seconds.
Collect Cleaning Supplies
Choose EPA-approved disinfectants to ensure effectiveness. Look for the EPA registration number on the label, which confirms the product has been tested against specific germs. Popular choices include Lysol disinfectant spray and Clorox disinfecting wipes. If you’re using a bleach solution, always follow the manufacturer’s dilution guidelines.
Use microfiber cloths to trap dirt and particles efficiently. To avoid cross-contamination, assign separate cloths for different areas. Paper towels can work in a pinch but may leave lint on surfaces like glass or metal.
For cleaning dirt and grease, mix 1 teaspoon of dish soap per quart of warm water. This helps prepare surfaces for disinfectants to work effectively.
Keep measuring tools on hand to mix disinfectants accurately. Many products require specific dilutions, so use measuring spoons and cups dedicated solely to cleaning tasks. Never use kitchen tools for this purpose.
Spray bottles are great for applying disinfectants evenly. If you’re mixing your own solution, label the bottle clearly with its contents and the date it was prepared.
Finally, pay attention to the contact time – this is the amount of time the disinfectant needs to stay wet on a surface to work properly. It varies by product, so always check the instructions.
Step 1: Remove Debris and Pre-Clean
Before jumping into disinfecting, start by clearing away any visible dirt, dust, or debris. Why? Because dirt and organic matter can weaken disinfectants, making them less effective. This initial cleaning step ensures the disinfectant can do its job properly in the next stages.
Take a close look at high-touch areas like light switches, door handles, and keyboards. For stubborn particles, use a soft-bristled brush to loosen them.
Tackle Hard Surfaces
For hard surfaces, grab a disposable towel or a microfiber cloth dampened with water or diluted dish soap. Work from top to bottom, and don’t ignore textured areas where dirt tends to hide.
In kitchens and bathrooms, focus on removing soap scum, food residue, or mineral deposits – these can block the disinfectant from fully reaching the surface.
When it comes to electronics, a little extra care is necessary. Turn off and unplug devices before cleaning. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes for phones, tablets, and screens. For keyboards, flip them upside down to shake out crumbs or debris, then wipe them down. Be cautious not to let moisture seep into ports, speakers, or charging areas.
For glass surfaces like mirrors and windows, use a lint-free cloth to keep streaks at bay. Also, make sure to remove sticky residue or buildup that might interfere with the disinfectant’s effectiveness.
Once you’ve cleaned, inspect the surfaces – they should look clean and feel smooth to the touch. Any leftover grime can reduce how well the disinfectant works, so thoroughness here is key.
To avoid spreading germs, change your cloths frequently. Use different cloths for separate rooms or surface types to keep things hygienic and prevent cross-contamination.
Step 2: Wash Surfaces with Detergent
Start by washing surfaces with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. This step removes grease and grime, creating a clean base for disinfectants to work properly.
Warm water plays a key role here – it breaks down grease and reduces surface tension, helping the detergent spread more evenly. When paired with detergent, warm water also helps dissolve cleaning agents for better cleaning power.
To get started, mix a small amount of mild, plant-based detergent with warm water in a spray bottle or bucket. Use a clean microfiber cloth to tackle areas like door handles, light switches, and countertops. Look for detergents with plant-based surfactants such as coco glucoside or decyl glucoside. These options are 100% biodegradable, effective at cutting through grease, and gentle on surfaces.
For tougher grime, let the hot detergent solution sit on the surface for a few minutes before scrubbing. This helps emulsify and lift stubborn fats. If you’re dealing with particularly tricky spots, try using baking soda or a 1:1 mix of white vinegar and warm water to break down grease and buildup.
"If a cleaning product used for simple everyday cleaning says you need to use it in a well-ventilated space or wear respiratory protection…that’s a red flag!" – Healthier Homes
Avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals that leave behind residues, as these can interfere with the effectiveness of disinfectants.
Once you’ve cleaned the surface, rinse it thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove all soap residue. Any leftover detergent can form a barrier that reduces the disinfectant’s ability to kill germs. Make sure to change your cleaning cloths frequently to prevent spreading dirt from one area to another. Using separate cloths for different rooms – like keeping kitchen cloths away from bathrooms – can help minimize cross-contamination.
When you’re done, the surfaces should look clean and feel completely smooth. If you notice any stickiness or residue, rinse again. A truly clean surface is essential for ensuring disinfectants do their job effectively.
Step 3: Apply Disinfectant
Use an EPA-approved disinfectant to eliminate germs on frequently touched areas like door handles, light switches, and handrails. Always check the product label for details on concentration, application method, and required contact time. It’s essential to ensure the disinfectant is suitable for the surface you’re treating, as some products can cause damage to specific materials. For effective results, the surface must remain visibly wet for the entire contact time specified on the label.
"Surfaces being disinfected should be visibly wet and well-soaked to ensure the disinfectant does not dry before the end of the optimum contact time (as indicated on the label). A visibly wet surface also allows you to ensure proper coverage."
– Sterilex®
Disinfectants with surfactants may foam during application, which not only shows where the product has been applied but also helps it stick to the surface for the required duration.
"To ensure that a disinfectant kills all listed microorganisms or inactivates the viruses it claims to, the product must be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions."
– Sterilex®
Make Sure You Cover Everything
To achieve thorough coverage and maintain proper contact time, follow these steps:
- Apply the disinfectant evenly using a disposable paper towel or a clean microfiber cloth. Work in overlapping strokes to avoid missing spots.
- For delicate electronics like phones, tablets, or control panels, spray the disinfectant onto a cloth instead of directly onto the device. This prevents liquid from seeping into sensitive components.
- Pay special attention to textured surfaces, ensuring the disinfectant reaches all crevices.
- On vertical surfaces, start from the bottom and work your way up to prevent dripping.
Keep track of time as you work. If parts of a large area begin to dry before the contact time is up, reapply the disinfectant to ensure it remains effective.
sbb-itb-401327a
Step 4: Wait for Contact Time
Contact time – also referred to as "wet time" or "dwell time" – is the amount of time a disinfectant must stay wet on a surface to effectively eliminate the pathogens listed on its label. For this to work, the surface needs to remain visibly wet throughout the entire duration specified by the product instructions.
In conditions with high temperatures or low humidity, evaporation happens faster. Keep an eye on surfaces and reapply disinfectant if they start to dry out prematurely.
As Kerry Rigg, Owner of KW Safety, emphasizes:
"Not using them according to label instructions can lead to bacteria and viruses prolificating."
If any section of the surface dries before the required contact time is up, reapply the disinfectant immediately. Skipping or shortening this step can have serious consequences. In healthcare settings, for example, failing to meet proper contact times has been linked to the spread of harmful bacteria like MRSA, C-Difficile, and Staphylococcus aureus. Alarmingly, around 12% of patients who develop hospital-acquired infections never make it back home.
While waiting, resist the urge to wipe the surface. Let it air dry completely. This ensures the disinfectant has enough time to work effectively before moving on.
If you’re pressed for time, consider using disinfectants with shorter contact times, but only if they are proven to maintain their effectiveness. Following these guidelines ensures your disinfection process is as thorough as it needs to be.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry (if needed)
Check the disinfectant label to see if rinsing is necessary. If it is, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any leftover residue. Once rinsed, let the surface air dry completely. If you’re in a hurry, disposable paper towels can speed up the drying process. Avoid using reusable cloths or dish towels, as they can harbor and spread germs. After drying, move on to the next steps for safety and cleaning schedules.
Safety and How Often to Clean
To make the most of proper disinfection techniques, it’s essential to follow safety protocols and establish a cleaning schedule that matches the needs of your space. How often you clean should depend on factors like how much traffic an area gets, how many people use it, and how frequently surfaces are touched. These practices help ensure that cleaning not only protects health but also maintains the effectiveness of disinfectants.
Prioritizing Personal Safety
When cleaning, always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and masks. Proper ventilation is key – open windows or use fans to reduce exposure to fumes from cleaning products. Store all cleaning supplies securely and out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidents.
Cleaning at Home
In residential spaces, focus on high-touch surfaces such as door handles, light switches, remote controls, and kitchen counters. Clean these areas daily, and if someone in the household is sick, increase cleaning to 2–3 times a day.
Cleaning in Workplaces and Businesses
Workplaces and commercial spaces typically require more frequent cleaning due to higher foot traffic. High-touch surfaces should be cleaned at least twice a day, and areas with heavy use may need even more frequent attention.
Specific cleaning needs for different business areas include:
- Restrooms and break rooms: Clean every two to four hours to reduce contamination risks.
- Door handles, elevator buttons, and shared equipment: During busy times, clean these hourly.
- Workstations: Sanitize at the end of each shift so employees start with a clean space.
Plan for daily deep cleaning of all high-touch surfaces to maintain a safe environment.
Here’s a quick reference for cleaning frequencies in various settings:
| Location Type | Cleaning Frequency | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Homes | Daily (2–3× during illness) | Focus on frequently touched surfaces |
| Office Workstations | End of each shift | Include keyboards, phones, and desks |
| Restrooms/Break Rooms | Every 2–4 hours | Higher risk of contamination |
| Door Handles/Elevators | Hourly during busy periods | High-contact surfaces |
| High-Traffic Areas | Multiple times daily | Adjust based on volume of foot traffic |
Handling Outbreaks and Biohazards
In situations with increased risk, such as during a disease outbreak, enhanced cleaning protocols are necessary. Disinfect areas where illness is evident, like spaces affected by vomiting. Local health authorities may issue additional cleaning guidelines during outbreaks.
For biohazards that go beyond routine illness, such as chemical spills or hazardous materials, specialized training and equipment are required. These situations often call for professional-grade cleaning methods and stricter safety measures to ensure proper decontamination. Adjust cleaning schedules as needed based on seasonal risks, occupancy levels, and updated health recommendations.
Professional Help from Old World Restoration and Carpet Cleaning
Sometimes, routine cleaning just doesn’t cut it. While the five-step guide for high-touch surface disinfection is great for everyday needs, certain situations call for professional expertise. That’s where Old World Restoration and Carpet Cleaning steps in. With over 45 years of experience, they provide advanced sanitization services to Colorado Springs and nearby areas, offering solutions that go beyond the basics.
Their biohazard cleaning services utilize specialized tools to safely eliminate hazards and ensure a deep level of cleanliness.
If you’re dealing with an emergency, their 24/7 emergency services are designed to respond quickly to contamination incidents. Whether it’s a biohazard situation at your workplace or a serious issue at home, their team is ready to act fast, containing and cleaning affected areas.
Serving both residential and commercial properties throughout the Colorado region, they bring the same high level of expertise to homeowners and businesses alike. Their services are backed by IICRC certification, specialized equipment, and advanced training. This means their technicians understand how to handle various contaminants, choose the right cleaning agents, and safely manage health risks.
For businesses needing regular deep cleaning or homes dealing with significant contamination, their professional services provide peace of mind. They ensure the job is done thoroughly and correctly, leaving spaces safe and clean.
As a family-owned company, Old World Restoration and Carpet Cleaning offers a unique combination of cleaning and restoration services. This allows them to address both immediate sanitization needs and any restoration work that might follow contamination incidents.
Conclusion
Achieving effective high-touch disinfection comes down to following a few key steps: removing debris, washing with detergent, applying disinfectant, allowing the proper contact time, and rinsing if needed. This method ensures harmful germs are thoroughly eliminated.
Preparation is equally important. Having the right PPE, supplies, and a clear plan makes all the difference. Without these, even the most powerful disinfectants won’t work as intended. Pre-cleaning is a critical step – it clears away dirt and debris that could block the disinfectant from doing its job.
Pay close attention to contact time. Disinfectants need a specific amount of time – usually between 30 seconds and 10 minutes – to work effectively. Always follow the product’s guidelines to ensure proper germ removal.
Consistency is key. High-touch surfaces should be disinfected daily to maintain safety. In situations that demand more than routine cleaning, specialized assistance may be necessary.
For advanced sanitization needs or biohazard incidents, professional cleaning services bring the expertise and tools required to handle the job effectively.
FAQs
How can I stay safe while disinfecting high-touch surfaces?
When disinfecting, prioritize your safety by wearing gloves and a mask. Ensure the space is well-ventilated to minimize exposure to any fumes. Use EPA-approved disinfectants that contain at least 70% alcohol or other recommended solutions. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use the products safely and effectively. Avoid mixing cleaning products, as this can result in hazardous fumes.
What’s the best way to choose the right disinfectant for surfaces at home or work?
When choosing a disinfectant, it’s important to think about the surface you’re cleaning and the germs you’re aiming to remove. Always check the product label to confirm it’s suitable for the material – whether it’s wood, glass, or metal – and that it effectively targets the microorganisms you’re concerned about. Opting for EPA-registered disinfectants is a dependable way to ensure you’re achieving proper sanitation.
Be mindful of details like the required contact time, which refers to how long the disinfectant needs to remain wet on the surface to work effectively. Also, make sure to follow all safety guidelines provided. For frequently touched areas, consider products that are simple to apply and dry quickly, making the cleaning process both efficient and safe.
Why is it crucial to follow the contact time listed on disinfectant labels, and what are the risks of skipping this step?
Following the contact time listed on disinfectant labels is key to making sure the product has enough time to do its job – eliminating harmful microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. This step plays a vital role in reducing the spread of germs and keeping your environment safe and healthy.
Skipping this step can mean the disinfectant doesn’t work as it should, leaving surfaces only partially sanitized. This not only increases the risk of contamination but also makes it easier for illnesses to spread. To ensure effective results, always stick to the instructions provided on the label.
