The Proper Amount of Disinfecting and Sanitizing Needed to Keep You Safe from Germs

Germs are vile little organisms that have the potential to make us all very ill. In fact, each year, humans spend about $5 billion on diseases caused by bacteria. Infected things or people leave germs behind on surfaces where they are viable to infect others. We get sick because we touch our eyes, mouths, and noses with our hands, which allows bacteria to enter our bodies and make us sick.

Why is it so important to wash my hands after touching things?

It is essential to wash your hands often to avoid becoming affected by germs that may be found on surfaces and objects. You can’t however wash your hands after touching everything. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and items on a regular basis are also critical.

Some individuals believe that disinfection is synonymous with cleaning or sanitizing. But in reality, they’re rather different. Chemicals (disinfectants) are used in disinfection to destroy microorganisms on surfaces and objects. Bleach and alcohol solutions are two of the most often used disinfectants. The bacteria are normally killed by allowing the disinfectant to remain on the surface or item for a length of time after application. 

Cleaning and disinfecting, or a combination of the two, are all acceptable methods of sanitizing. A safe number of germs have been removed through the process of sanitization. Public health regulations or criteria at businesses, schools, etc. dictate what constitutes a safe level.  What you do to sterilize may vary based on your needs. It’s possible you’re going to be cleaning a floor using a mop, water, and a chemical solution.

How to Safely Use Bleach to Kill Germs

When using bleach products, be sure to follow these safety guidelines:

1. The bleach product’s instructions should be strictly followed. Make sure you have all the necessary safety gear, such as gloves and goggles.

1. Bleach (or any disinfectant) should not be used with any other cleansers or disinfectants. This can cause harmful fumes to be released into the air.

1. When using bleach products indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation

1. You may use ordinary, unscented home bleach to clean your bathroom and kitchen. Sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in most home bleach, is between 5% and 9%. If the percentage isn’t in this range, don’t use the bleach product. Some varieties of laundry bleach are not suitable for disinfection.

1. Bleach solution should be applied to surfaces according to the manufacturer’s directions. Wait at least a minute before wiping the bleach solution off of the area you’re trying to clean. During the contact duration, the surface should be noticeably moist.

1. After cleaning or disinfecting, always wash your hands.

1. To keep the bleach solution fresh, mix up a new batch every day. After mixing bleach solutions with water for more than 24 hours, their effectiveness will be diminished.

Loyal Hygiene Workplace Hygiene Solutions

One of the easiest methods to avoid germs is to wash your hands frequently. It’s especially useful during cold and flu season when we’re more likely to be exposed to germs from others.  When in doubt, contact Loyal Hygiene Solutions for all your hand soap dispenser services. We will be more than happy to assist you with all of your workplace hygiene needs.