Are Your Cleaning Products Killing Germs? Choosing Effective Disinfectants for Flu Season

Flu season can stretch into the spring months, so even in April and May businesses should take extra precautions to keep their facilities clean and safe. A workplace filled with employees and customers is a prime environment for germs to spread, leading to increased illness, lost productivity and potential health risks. While many businesses regularly clean their spaces, not all cleaning products effectively eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses.

Are your cleaning products actually killing germs, or are they just spreading them around?

Using the right disinfectants and cleaning methods can mean the difference between a healthy workforce and frequent absences due to illness.

The Difference Between Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting

Not all cleaning methods are created equal. For a truly germ-free environment, it’s important to understand the differences between cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting:

• Cleaning: Removes dirt, dust and debris from surfaces but does not necessarily kill bacteria and viruses.
  
  
• Sanitizing: Reduces the number of bacteria on surfaces to a safe level, but may not eliminate all germs.
  
  
• Disinfecting: Uses chemical solutions to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi, making it the most effective method for flu prevention.

During flu season, simply wiping down surfaces with soap and water is not enough. Businesses should use EPA-approved disinfectants to kill harmful viruses and bacteria.

How to Choose an Effective Disinfectant

Check for EPA Approval

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a list of disinfectants proven to kill influenza viruses, coronaviruses and other pathogens. When selecting a cleaning product, make sure it is on the EPA List N, which includes disinfectants effective against flu and COVID-19.

Look for Active Ingredients

Certain active ingredients are more effective at eliminating germs than others. The most powerful disinfectants contain:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: Kills bacteria and viruses quickly.
  
  
• Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): Used in hospitals and medical settings.
  
  
• Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach): A strong disinfectant effective against a variety of pathogens.
  
  
• Alcohol (Ethanol or Isopropyl Alcohol): Works well on surfaces but must be at least 70 percent alcohol to be effective.

Choose the Right Contact Time

Every disinfectant has a contact time, meaning the amount of time it must remain on a surface to effectively kill germs. Some products work within 30 seconds, while others may require up to 10 minutes. Businesses should select a disinfectant with a short contact time for high-traffic areas to maximize efficiency.

Consider Surface Compatibility

Not all disinfectants are suitable for every surface. Harsh chemicals like bleach may damage wood, metal and electronics. When selecting a disinfectant, confirm it is safe for desks, countertops, door handles and office equipment.

Avoid Harmful Chemicals

Some cleaning products contain toxic ingredients that can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation or environmental harm. You may want to avoid disinfectants with:

• Ammonia, if used improperly or in settings where it’s unsafe (can cause respiratory damage when mixed with bleach)
  
  
• Chlorine Gas (a strong irritant)
  
  
• Formaldehyde (a known carcinogen)

For a safer cleaning solution, particularly for high-touch surfaces, choose eco-friendly disinfectants that effectively kill germs without harmful side effects.

High-Touch Areas That Need Frequent Disinfection

During flu season, businesses must prioritize high-touch surfaces, where bacteria and viruses spread most easily. Key areas that require frequent disinfection include:

●      Door handles and push bars

●      Light switches

●      Restroom fixtures (faucets, toilet handles, soap dispensers)

●      Office desks, keyboards and phones

●      Breakroom surfaces, including refrigerators and microwaves

●      Elevator buttons and handrails

●      Conference tables and shared office supplies

A proper cleaning schedule should include multiple disinfections per day of high-touch surfaces.

The Importance of Professional Cleaning During Flu Season

Even with regular disinfecting, businesses may not have the time, staff or expertise for a truly germ-free environment. Hiring a professional commercial cleaning company can provide added protection and peace of mind.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services

1. Advanced Disinfection Methods: Professional cleaners use hospital-grade disinfectants and specialized equipment such as electrostatic sprayers to eliminate germs more effectively than standard cleaning methods.
   
   
2. Trained Cleaning Specialists: Expert cleaning professionals understand how to properly disinfect surfaces without damaging equipment or leaving harmful residues behind.
   
   
3. Customized Cleaning Schedules: Businesses can schedule daily, weekly or emergency cleaning services based on their specific needs, providing consistent protection against flu season outbreaks.
   
   
4. Compliance with Health and Safety Standards: A commercial cleaning company ensures that your business complies with OSHA and CDC guidelines for workplace sanitation and hygiene.

Protect Your Business With Our Midland and Odessa Cleaning Team

At West Texas Commercial Cleaning, we specialize in professional disinfection services tailored to your business needs. Our trained cleaning specialists use EPA-approved disinfectants and advanced cleaning techniques to keep your space germ-free and safe throughout flu season and beyond.

Don't let flu season disrupt your workplace. Contact us at West Texas Commercial Cleaning today or give us a call at 432-552-9520 to schedule professional cleaning and disinfection service that keeps your business running smoothly.