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What Is the Difference Between Cleaning and Sanitising? A Simple Guide

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.

What Is Cleaning?

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.

Common Cleaning Methods:

  • Dusting: Removing dust from surfaces using a cloth or duster. Ideal for furniture, electronics, and décor.

  • Scraping: Used for tough grime, grease, or food particles, particularly in kitchens.

  • Mopping: Cleaning floors with a mop and solution, ideal for hard surfaces like tile, hardwood, and vinyl.

  • Vacuuming: Removing dirt and debris from carpets, rugs, upholstery, and even hard floors.

Cleaning Products:

The type of cleaning product you use depends on the surface and level of grime. Common products include:

  • Detergents and Soaps: General-purpose products for most surfaces.

  • White Vinegar and Baking Soda: Eco-friendly options for tackling grime and deodorising.

  • Commercial Cleaners: Formulated for specific surfaces like glass, stainless steel, or wood.

The main goal of cleaning is to physically remove contaminants, which prepares surfaces for the next step—sanitising.

What Is 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 Methods:

  • Heat: Using hot water or steam to kill germs. Steam cleaners and dishwashers are common tools.

  • Chemical Sanitisers: Products like alcohol, chlorine, and quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are often used to sanitise surfaces.

  • UV Radiation: Some environments, such as hospitals, use ultraviolet (UV) light to kill germs. While less common in homes, it’s effective in high-risk areas.

Sanitising Agents:

Sanitising products are specifically formulated to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Some commonly used agents include:

  • Alcohol: Ethyl and isopropyl alcohol for quick germ-killing action on high-touch surfaces.

  • Chlorine: Found in bleach, chlorine is often used to disinfect kitchen and bathroom areas.

  • Hydrogen Peroxide: An eco-friendly alternative that’s effective without harsh chemicals.

  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds: Used in commercial settings for large areas like floors and high-touch surfaces.

The right method and agent depend on the surface and the germs being targeted.

Key Differences Between Cleaning and Sanitising

  • Cleaning: Focuses on removing visible dirt, dust, and debris. It enhances the appearance of a space but doesn’t necessarily kill germs.

  • Sanitising: Reduces the number of harmful microorganisms to a safe level. Sanitising should ideally be done after cleaning, as it’s more effective on already clean surfaces.


Combining Cleaning and Sanitising for Best Results

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.

Benefits of Cleaning and Sanitising Together:

  • Healthier Environment: Reduces harmful germs that cause illness and infection.
  • Better Air Quality: Regular cleaning removes dust and allergens, improving indoor air quality.

  • Improved Appearance: A clean and well-maintained space looks more inviting and can boost productivity.

  • Longevity of Surfaces and Equipment: Proper cleaning and sanitising can extend the life of surfaces and equipment by preventing the buildup of dirt, grime, and damaging microorganisms.


When to Clean vs. When to Sanitise

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.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Cleaning Services

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.

Key Benefits:

  1. Thorough Cleaning: Professionals follow proven processes to ensure every area is cleaned and sanitised, reducing the risk of missing important spots.

  2. Specialised Equipment: Using advanced, eco-friendly products and equipment, professionals can handle all types of surfaces, ensuring a deep clean.

  3. Health and Safety Compliance: Trained cleaners follow the latest health protocols, essential for environments like healthcare or food service.

  4. Customised Plans: Professionals tailor their services to your specific needs, whether for routine cleaning or a deep clean.

  5. Time Savings: Letting professionals handle cleaning allows you to focus on more important tasks, reducing stress.

  6. Healthier Environment: By eliminating germs and allergens, professional cleaning contributes to better air quality and a safer space.


Contact Us for Professional Cleaning and Sanitising Services

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.




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