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How to Disinfect the Right Way

We know that most homeowners strive to maintain a regular cleaning routine. But are you aware that cleaning is different than disinfecting? Or that mixing the wrong chemicals together could have disastrous effects on your family? If you are not quite sure, there is no need to worry! Prime Custom Builders is eager to share with you a few key things you should know when disinfecting your home so that your efforts do not go to waste.

Avoid Mixing Disinfectants

One of the most important things to know when dealing with disinfectants is that while one on their own can be harmless, if you mix the wrong ones together, they could be potentially lethal. For example, bleach is a quite common household disinfectant. However, when combined with vinegar, it can create noxious gases and can irritate your nose, throat, and eyes. Even worse is the combination of bleach with ammonia which can cause explosions and potentially death. If you are tempted to make your own disinfectant, it is better to err on the side of caution, especially when dealing with bleach.

Cleaning Vs Disinfecting

Both cleaning and disinfecting are important to incorporate into household maintenance. But there is a difference between the two. Cleaning, for example, physically removes surface bacteria and lingering viruses. Disinfecting, on the other hand, neutralizes bacteria and viruses.

Soap and water have been used for generations, and it should continue to be used for generations more because it is excellent at cleaning surfaces. To properly disinfect, however, a solution must have a bleach content of 5-6 percent or an alcohol content of 60-99 percent.

Allow Enough Dwell Time

One of the most common mistakes people make when disinfecting is not allowing the product to sit on the surface long enough. Odds are, if you are spraying a surface and then immediately wiping it dry, you are not getting the full effect you are looking for. One of the easiest ways to rectify this is to simply read the instructions on the back of whatever solution you are using. There you will find a recommended dwell time to follow.

And there you have it! These tips are easy to put into place and remember but they will leave you with peace of mind. If you found this article helpful, do not miss out on our other ones! We have lots of information that can help homeowners in their daily lives, and we have new information regularly. So, check back often!

By Prime Custom Builders 8-27-2020