Disinfecting is required to ensure surfaces don’t harbor bacteria and spread illness.

But what exactly is the difference between cleaning and disinfecting?

What Is the Difference Between Cleaning and Disinfecting?

person disinfecting the door handle in home

Credit:Getty Images / Grace Cary

Misuse of disinfectants will render them ineffective.

To disinfect high-touch surfaces, follow the same guidelines for disinfecting bathroom and kitchen surfaces outlined above.

Disinfecting sprays are a good choice for eliminating viruses and bacteria from soft surfaces.

First, if your washing machine has a sanitize setting, use it.

The sanitize setting uses an extra-hot wash temperature and can eliminate 99% of common bacteria and viruses.

If your washer doesn’t have a sanitizing cycle, opt for the hot water setting.