PuroClean of Melbourne 
Keeping your home clean is one thing, but truly disinfecting it is another. While cleaning removes dirt and debris, disinfection kills harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can make your family sick. At PuroClean of Melbourne, we understand that proper disinfection is essential for maintaining a healthy home environment. Here’s what you need to know about disinfecting your home the right way.
Understanding the Difference: Cleaning vs. Disinfecting
Why Choose PuroClean Property Restoration in Melbourne, FL
Before diving into disinfection techniques, it’s important to understand that cleaning and disinfecting are two distinct processes. Cleaning removes visible dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces using soap and water. Disinfecting, on the other hand, uses chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. For the most effective results, you should always clean surfaces first, then disinfect them.
Choose the Right Disinfectant
Not all cleaning products disinfect, and not all disinfectants work against every type of germ. When selecting a disinfectant, look for EPA-registered products that list the specific pathogens they’re effective against. Common effective disinfectants include:
- Bleach solutions (properly diluted)
- Alcohol solutions (at least 70% concentration)
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Quaternary ammonium compounds
- EPA-registered disinfectant sprays and wipes
Always check the product label to ensure it’s appropriate for the surface you’re treating and the germs you’re targeting.
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Follow Contact Time Requirements
One of the most common disinfection mistakes is wiping a surface immediately after applying a disinfectant. Every disinfectant requires a specific “contact time” or “dwell time” to effectively kill germs. This can range from 30 seconds to 10 minutes, depending on the product.
Read the label carefully and leave the surface visibly wet for the entire recommended contact time. If the surface dries before the time is up, you’ll need to reapply the disinfectant.
Focus on High-Touch Surfaces
While it’s not practical to disinfect your entire home daily, you should prioritize high-touch surfaces that are most likely to harbor germs. These include:
- Door handles and knobs
- Light switches
- Remote controls
- Kitchen countertops
- Bathroom fixtures and faucets
- Toilet handles
- Phone screens and devices
- Keyboards and computer mice
- Stair railings
- Refrigerator handles
Disinfect these surfaces at least once daily, or more frequently if someone in your household is ill.
Proper Application Techniques
How you apply disinfectant matters just as much as which product you use. Follow these best practices:
Clean First: Remove visible dirt and debris with soap and water before disinfecting. Organic matter can reduce disinfectant effectiveness.
Apply Generously: Don’t skimp on product. The surface should be thoroughly wetted, not just lightly misted.
Use the Right Tool: Spray bottles work well for large surfaces, while disposable wipes are convenient for quick jobs. For porous surfaces, use cloths that can hold more solution.
One Direction Wiping: When using wipes or cloths, wipe in one direction rather than back and forth to avoid redistributing germs.
Dispose Properly: Never reuse disinfectant wipes, and wash reusable cloths in hot water after each use.
Safety Precautions
Disinfectants are powerful chemicals that require careful handling:
- Always work in well-ventilated areas by opening windows or using fans
- Wear gloves to protect your skin
- Never mix different disinfectants, especially bleach with ammonia or acids
- Keep disinfectants away from children and pets
- Store products in their original containers with labels intact
- Follow all manufacturer safety instructions
Don’t Forget Often-Overlooked Areas
Beyond high-touch surfaces, certain areas of your home may harbor germs but are frequently forgotten during disinfection routines:
- Garbage can lids and handles
- Dish sponges and cleaning tools
- Pet bowls and toys
- Children’s toys
- Laundry hampers
- Car interiors (steering wheel, door handles, gear shift)
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When to Call the Professionals
While regular home disinfection is manageable for most homeowners, certain situations require professional intervention. Consider calling PuroClean of Melbourne if you’re dealing with:
- Illness outbreaks in your home
- Contamination from sewage or floodwater
- Mold growth
- Biohazard cleanup
- Post-construction cleaning
- Move-in/move-out deep cleaning and disinfection
Our trained technicians use professional-grade disinfectants and proven techniques to ensure your home is thoroughly sanitized and safe.
Establish a Regular Routine
Consistency is key to maintaining a disinfected home. Create a schedule that works for your household:
- Daily: High-touch surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms
- Weekly: Less frequently touched surfaces, doorknobs throughout the home, light switches
- Monthly: Deep disinfection of entire rooms on a rotating basis
The Bottom Line
Proper disinfection protects your family from harmful pathogens and creates a healthier living environment. By choosing the right products, following proper techniques, and maintaining a consistent routine, you can effectively disinfect your home and reduce the spread of illness.
Remember, when regular cleaning and disinfection aren’t enough, PuroClean of Melbourne is here to help with professional disinfection services that give you peace of mind. Our certified technicians have the expertise and equipment to handle any disinfection challenge, ensuring your home is truly clean and safe.
For more information about our professional disinfection services or to schedule an appointment, contact PuroClean of Melbourne today. Your family’s health is worth the investment in proper disinfection.
PuroClean’s property restoration experts are available 24/7 to help with fire damage, water damage restoration, mold remediation, biohazard cleanups, and more. As the “Paramedics of Property Damage®,” we are the first responders of property restoration, providing emergency service when you truly need it. We assist both residential and commercial clients. To schedule an appointment with the PuroClean of Melbourne office, please visit our website or call us at (321) 378-2400.
PuroClean of Melbourne 