Written by: Martha Davidson, Inside Sales Representative at Charlotte Products

Effective disinfection is vital in any janitorial operation, especially in high-traffic facilities where preventing the spread of pathogens is essential. However, improper techniques or misunderstandings can compromise cleaning efforts and leave surfaces vulnerable to contamination. This guide will walk you through the most common mistakes made during disinfection, and provide practical solutions for better outcomes.

1. Skipping the Pre-Cleaning Step

One of the biggest misconceptions is that disinfectants work well on all surfaces, regardless of the soil level. According to the CDC, surfaces should be cleaned of visible soil and grime before disinfection. Dirt and debris can act as a barrier, preventing the disinfectant from reaching the surface where pathogens reside.

Tip: Always pre-clean with an appropriate cleaner to ensure the disinfectant is effective.

We recommend Enviro-Solutions® ES72 Hydrogen Peroxide Multi-Purpose Cleaner. This multi-purpose cleaner has various dilutions depending on the cleaning necessary.

2. Not Allowing Proper Dwell Time

Another frequent mistake is wiping away or rinsing the disinfectant too soon. Each disinfectant requires a specific “dwell time”—the length of time it must remain on the surface to effectively kill pathogens. This information is usually indicated on the product label. Rushing this step can leave harmful bacteria and viruses behind.

Tip: Be patient and ensure you follow the dwell time instructions precisely to maximize efficacy.

Example below of dwell time from Enviro-Solutions® ES15 Spray & Wipe Disinfectant Cleaner:

3. Using the Wrong Disinfectant for the Task

Not all disinfectants are effective against every pathogen. It is essential to choose the right product based on the type(s) of bacteria and virus(es) prevalent in your facility. The CDC recommends checking product labels for efficacy against specific organisms.

Tip: Reference the disinfectant’s efficacy list to confirm it targets the most common pathogens in your environment.

All of our Enviro-Solutions® disinfectants have a microbial effectiveness sheet on their product page, which lists all of the micro-organisms the product is effective against.

4. Incorrect Dilution Ratios

Using too little disinfectant can render the solution ineffective, while using too much can be wasteful and hazardous. Accurate dilution is critical to the disinfection process, especially for concentrated products.

Tip: Always follow manufacturer guidelines for dilution, using properly calibrated equipment when necessary.

Charlotte Products offers an extensive range of dilution solutions, and our Dilution Control page lists all of the dispensers we offer. 

Using dilution control is estimated to provide 25-65% savings versus “free pouring”, it gives accurate dilutions every time, and due to our no chemical contact packaging, we help ensure human wellness during use.

5. Applying Disinfectant to Incompatible Surfaces

Some surfaces may react poorly with specific disinfectants, leading to damage or reduced efficacy. Certain disinfectants can corrode metals or discolor fabrics, which can lead to costly replacements and even compromise sanitation.

Tip: Test new disinfectants on a small, inconspicuous area before general use, and follow recommendations for compatible surfaces.

6. Neglecting to Measure and Monitor Concentration (PPM)

Ensuring that the disinfectant concentration remains within the recommended PPM (parts per million) level is crucial for its effectiveness. Over time, some disinfectants can degrade, especially if mixed in advance, leading to an insufficient concentration to kill pathogens effectively.

Tip: Regularly test PPM levels to ensure the disinfectant maintains its potency, particularly for high-risk areas.

Read about proper PPM

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Choosing the Right Disinfectant for Your Needs

Selecting the correct disinfectant and applying it effectively not only promotes a cleaner environment, but also ensures that facilities meet the highest standards of hygiene. Always adhere to the CDC guidelines, and follow manufacturer instructions for best results. By avoiding these common mistakes, janitorial teams can improve their cleaning outcomes, reduce the spread of illness, and maintain safe, sanitary spaces for all.

Need help selecting the best disinfectant for your facility? Contact us at experts@charlotteproducts.com for product recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Check out Charlotte Product’s full line of Enviro-Solutions® disinfectants here.