Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are three distinct processes with specific EPA and CDC definitions. Vendors that mix them up — or facilities that specify one when they need another — end up either overspending on chemistry or under-protecting occupants.
Cleaning
Physical removal of soil, dust, and debris using detergent and mechanical action. Cleaning does not kill pathogens — it removes them along with the soil that shields them.
Sanitizing
Reduces bacteria on food-contact and similar surfaces to a level deemed safe by public health standards (typically a 99.9% reduction). EPA-registered sanitizers, shorter dwell time than disinfectants.
Disinfecting
Kills nearly all pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi) per EPA registration. Requires visibly wet dwell time — typically 3-10 minutes. Cannot be effective on soiled surfaces; cleaning must precede disinfecting.
The Two-Step Rule
Any disinfection protocol requires cleaning first. Applying disinfectant to a dusty or soiled surface neutralizes the chemistry before it can kill target organisms.
Right-Sized Chemistry for Your Facility
We match protocol to facility type — no over- or under-treating.