Sanitizers & Disinfectants

Questions & Answers

Sanitizers & Disinfectants

Keeping your space healthy starts with the right disinfectant or sanitizer. These products help kill germs, remove dirt, and prevent the spread of illness in homes, workplaces, schools, and high-traffic environments. Many options on this page are EPA-registered and proven to kill viruses and bacteria on surfaces, including disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

Every disinfectant and sanitizer must pass strict EPA testing for effectiveness, safety, and proper use. Labels include an EPA registration number, usage directions, and required contact time, which is how long the surface must stay wet for the product to work. Following these instructions is essential for real germ reduction.

Many people use the terms sanitizer and disinfectant interchangeably, but they are not the same. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right product for your needs.

What’s the Difference Between Sanitizers and Disinfectants?

A sanitizer lowers the number of germs on a surface to levels considered safe. It reduces microorganisms but does noteliminate all of them. Some sanitizers, like food-contact sanitizers, are designed specifically for kitchens and meal-prep areas.

A disinfectant is stronger. It is registered as an antimicrobial pesticide and works to kill many types of viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms. For a disinfectant to be effective, the surface must remain wet for the full contact time listed on the label.

Some products serve as both a sanitizer and a disinfectant, but a sanitizer alone cannot always replace a disinfectant. Simply put: sanitizers reduce germs; disinfectants eliminate them.

Choosing Disinfectants for Viruses and Bacteria

The Environmental Protection Agency maintains List N, a list of disinfectants proven to kill viruses like SARS-CoV-2. Products on this list are tested and shown to work when used exactly as directed.

Many disinfectant cleaners offered here are approved for use against SARS-CoV-2 and help prevent the spread of everyday germs. Some formulas use chlorine, while others rely on advanced antimicrobial ingredients. All are designed to clean surfaces, remove dirt, and support effective disinfection.

Always read the label carefully, follow usage directions, and allow surfaces to dry fully for the product to work as intended.

Sanitizing and Disinfecting for Home & Workplace Safety

Cleaners like soap and water help remove dirt, but sanitizing and disinfecting require stronger formulas. Hand sanitizers help reduce germs on hands, while surface disinfectants are made for non-porous surfaces such as countertops, desks, and door handles.

Hand products are regulated by the FDA, while surface disinfectants fall under the EPA. Because these categories are regulated differently, only products that pass the required testing can legally claim to sanitize or disinfect.

Always read labels, choose the right product for your surface, and check which germs the formula is designed to address.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a sanitizer and a disinfectant?

A sanitizer reduces germs to safe levels, while a disinfectant kills a broader range of microorganisms.
Are disinfectants effective against COVID-19?

Yes. Many disinfectants appear on the EPA’s List N for use against SARS-CoV-2 when used as directed.
Why does EPA registration matter?

EPA registration confirms a disinfectant has been tested and proven effective and safe when used properly.
Can I use hand sanitizers on surfaces?

No. Hand sanitizers are for skin and regulated by the FDA, not for use on non-porous surfaces.
Do disinfectants kill all microorganisms?

No disinfectant kills every microorganism on all surfaces, but they target many viruses and bacteria when used correctly.