In the world of commercial cleaning, the terms "cleaning," "sanitizing," and "disinfecting" are often used interchangeably. However, they each have distinct meanings and applications. Understanding the difference is crucial for maintaining a truly clean, healthy, and safe environment for your employees and customers. ## Cleaning: The First and Most Important Step Cleaning is the process of removing visible dirt, dust, and debris from a surface. This is typically done with soap or detergent and water. Cleaning does not necessarily kill germs, but it removes them from the surface. **Key Points about Cleaning:** - Removes dirt, dust, and other visible soils - Uses soap or detergent and water - Physically removes germs but does not kill them - Should always be the first step before sanitizing or disinfecting ## Sanitizing: Reducing Bacteria to a Safe Level Sanitizing is the process of reducing the number of bacteria on a surface to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. ## Disinfecting: Killing Germs and Viruses Disinfecting is the process of killing germs, including bacteria and viruses, on a surface. Disinfecting is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. ## When to Clean, Sanitize, and Disinfect - Clean surfaces daily - Sanitize surfaces that come into contact with food - Disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive cleaning services.