Question 1

What's the difference between cleaning and disinfecting?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning removes dirt and germs from surfaces. Disinfecting kills germs using chemicals. You should clean before disinfecting.

Question 2

How long should disinfectant sit on a surface?

Accepted Answer

Check the product label for contact time, typically 1-10 minutes. The surface must remain visibly wet for the entire time.

Question 3

What kills germs better, bleach or alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Both work well. Bleach is stronger but harsher. Alcohol (70%) is safer for many surfaces and electronics.

Question 4

How often should you disinfect high-touch surfaces?

Accepted Answer

Daily during cold and flu season or when someone is sick. Weekly otherwise.

Question 5

Can you mix bleach and vinegar?

Accepted Answer

Never. Mixing creates toxic chlorine gas that can cause severe respiratory damage.

Question 6

Does Lysol kill COVID-19?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Lysol disinfectant spray is on the EPA List N approved for use against SARS-CoV-2.

Question 7

How do you make a disinfectant solution?

Accepted Answer

Mix 1/3 cup bleach per gallon of water for general disinfecting. Use within 24 hours for maximum effectiveness.

Question 8

Can you use vinegar as a disinfectant?

Accepted Answer

Vinegar has some antibacterial properties but is not as effective as registered disinfectants. Use it for cleaning, not disinfection.

Question 9

What surfaces need to be disinfected most often?

Accepted Answer

Doorknobs, light switches, faucet handles, phones, remote controls, keyboards, and bathroom surfaces.

Question 10

Is hydrogen peroxide a good disinfectant?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 3% hydrogen peroxide kills many bacteria and viruses. It's safer than bleach for most surfaces.

Question 11

How do you disinfect a sponge?

Accepted Answer

Microwave a damp sponge for 1 minute, or run through the dishwasher's hottest cycle. Replace weekly.

Question 12

Can you disinfect electronics?

Accepted Answer

Use 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cloth (not directly on the device). Avoid liquid getting into ports or screens.

Question 13

Does sunlight kill germs?

Accepted Answer

UV light kills some bacteria and viruses. Place items in direct sunlight for several hours for some disinfection effect.

Question 14

What's the best disinfectant for a kitchen?

Accepted Answer

EPA-registered kitchen disinfectants safe for food contact surfaces. Read labels for contact time and rinsing requirements.

Question 15

How do you disinfect toys?

Accepted Answer

Wash with soap and water first, then disinfect with diluted bleach solution or EPA-registered disinfectant. Rinse food-contact toys.

Question 16

Can you reuse disinfecting wipes?

Accepted Answer

No. Each wipe is designed for single use. The chemicals are also one-time effective.

Question 17

Does Lysol expire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most disinfectants have a 2-year shelf life. Check the bottle for expiration date or 'use by' date.

Question 18

How do you disinfect a sick room?

Accepted Answer

Wear gloves. Wipe all surfaces with disinfectant, change linens, wash bedding in hot water, and increase ventilation.

Question 19

What's the best disinfectant for flu prevention?

Accepted Answer

Any EPA-registered disinfectant with proven flu virus efficacy. Lysol, Clorox, and 70% alcohol all work.

Question 20

How do you disinfect a phone?

Accepted Answer

Wipe with a 70% isopropyl alcohol cloth or disinfecting wipe. Avoid getting moisture in ports. Apple recommends Lysol Disinfecting Wipes.

Disinfecting FAQ