Cleaning for Health

Household cleaning products intended to kill germs on inanimate surfaces are typically said on their labels to disinfect, kill bacteria or sanitize. Depending on their active ingredient(s) and specific formulation, these products may kill a wide variety of microorganisms that can live on household surfaces, such as foodborne bacteria like Salmonella; the cold virus; and fungus that causes athlete's foot. Household cleaning products designed to kill germs on surfaces have been available for more than 100 years. They are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Regular cleaning products do a good job of removing soil, but only disinfectants or disinfectant cleaners (also known as antibacterial cleaners) kill the germs that can cause many illnesses.

Surfaces like kitchen and bathroom counters, door knobs, toilet seats and children's toys may be contaminated with bacteria even when they're not visibly soiled.

Germs can be spread to other surfaces on dirty cleaning cloths and sponges.

Products that claim to kill germs must meet efficacy requirements and guidelines established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and must be registered with EPA and carry an EPA registration number on their label.

In order for surfaces to be effectively disinfected, the instructions on product labels need to be followed carefully.

                
Courtesy of: Clean Living