In today’s world, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is more important than ever. But when it comes to keeping spaces safe, do you know the difference between cleaning and sanitising?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to two distinct processes with unique goals. Whether you're responsible for a
home, office, healthcare facility, or any other space, understanding when and how to clean versus sanitise can make all the difference.
Cleaning is the process of removing visible dirt, dust, grime, and debris from surfaces. The aim is to make spaces look and feel fresh, reducing contaminants like dust and allergens.
While cleaning improves appearance and creates a more pleasant environment, it doesn’t necessarily kill all germs or harmful microorganisms.
The type of cleaning product you use depends on the surface and level of grime. Common products include:
The main goal of cleaning is to physically remove contaminants, which prepares surfaces for the next step—sanitising.
Sanitising goes beyond cleaning by reducing the number of germs like bacteria, viruses, and fungi to a safe level.
This step is crucial in areas where hygiene is key, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or healthcare facilities. While cleaning handles visible dirt, sanitising focuses on killing microorganisms that could cause illness or disease.
Sanitising products are specifically formulated to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Some commonly used agents include:
The right method and agent depend on the surface and the germs being targeted.
The most effective way to maintain a safe, healthy environment is to combine both cleaning and sanitising. Begin by cleaning to remove visible dirt, dust, and grime.
After cleaning, apply a sanitising agent to kill any remaining germs. This two-step process is essential in high-risk areas like kitchens, healthcare facilities, or any space where hygiene is paramount.
Knowing when to clean and when to sanitise is key to maintaining a hygienic space. Surfaces that come into contact with food, like kitchen counters and utensils, or areas in healthcare settings should be regularly sanitised to prevent the spread of harmful germs.
High-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom fixtures should also be frequently sanitised, especially in public spaces.
In contrast, surfaces like floors, walls, or windows generally require only regular cleaning, unless they’re in high-risk areas.
The choice between cleaning and sanitising depends on the level of contamination, the frequency of use, and any relevant health regulations
or guidelines.
Hiring professional cleaners offers a more efficient and thorough way to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. With the right tools, products, and expertise, professionals ensure your space is properly cleaned and sanitised to meet high standards.
Understanding what is the difference between cleaning and sanitising is key to maintaining a safe and healthy environment. Both play an important role but serve different purposes.
For peace of mind and a space that’s truly clean, our team at Clean Feeling is here to help. We offer reliable, thorough, and customised cleaning solutions that meet the highest standards of hygiene.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how we can help you maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone who enters your space.
