To kill bacteria, use EPA-approved disinfectants with active ingredients like sodium hypochlorite (bleach), hydrogen peroxide (3%), or alcohol (70% ethanol/isopropanol), ensuring proper dilution and contact time, and always cleaning first with soap and water, but never mixing bleach with other cleaners like ammonia due to dangerous fumes.
Clean the surface with soap and water first. If ready-to-use disinfectants are not available, you can use bleach solutions for many hard surfaces. Bleach solutions will be effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi when properly diluted.
Bleach is a strong and effective disinfectant – its active ingredient sodium hypochlorite is effective in killing bacteria, fungi and viruses, including influenza virus – but it is easily inactivated by organic material. Diluted household bleach disinfects within 10–60 minutes contact time (see Table G.
Common types of disinfectants used for facility maintenance may include active ingredients such as quaternary ammonium (quat), sodium hypochlorite (bleach), hydrogen peroxide, silver ions, iodine, acids or alcohol – each of which may be effective on different strains of pathogens.
Product efficacy
How can Dettol kill 99.9% of bacteria? Our disinfectant products contain active substances which have bactericidal and/or virucidal activity. In order to confirm the level of active substances, all products are tested according to European standards.
Antiseptic Liquid for Bathing
Like we are advised to wash our hands with a disinfectant bar soap or liquid, we are also recommended to include antiseptic liquids in our bathing routines as well. Using an antiseptic liquid can give us protection from harmful bacteria and viruses that can target the body and skin.
Both Clorox and Lysol wipes are EPA-approved to kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, including nasty ones like E. coli, Salmonella, and Influenza A. I tested both on kitchen counters, door handles, and my phone screen (gross, I know). They both did a solid job.
Studies confirming vinegar's antibacterial properties: Household natural sanitizers like lemon juice and vinegar reduced the number of pathogens to undetectable levels. Vinegar can inhibit growth of and kill some food-borne pathogenic bacteria. Plus, vinegar's bactericidal activity increased with heat!
In standard public health MCQs, the most powerful chemical disinfectant among given options is chlorine compounds, but not listed here. Between the given, phenol is considered the strongest disinfectant.
Hospitals typically use Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), Titanium Dioxide, Hydrogen Peroxide, UV Light, and Alcohol-based disinfectants.
Here are 10 of the most common bacteria found in everyday environments — and why being aware of them matters.
Most hotels clean and disinfect bathrooms between guests, but depth and consistency vary by brand, staffing, and products. Strong programs use color-coded microfiber, EPA-registered disinfectants, and documented checklists to reduce cross-contamination and focus on high-touch surfaces.
Kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria to bring peace of mind
But don't worry, Lysol Disinfectant Spray can be used throughout your home to kills 99.9% of germs found on commonly touched surfaces,† including: BATHROOMS: Bath Tubs & Shower, Toilet Seats, Faucets.
Bleach-based cleaners kill bacteria in the most germ-contaminated sites, including sponges, dishcloths, kitchen and bathroom sinks and the kitchen sink drain area. Use bleach-based spray or a solution of bleach and water on cutting boards after every use to kill harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.
The FDA approves disinfectant solutions containing 7.5% hydrogen peroxide for health care settings. Hydrogen peroxide is a great surface cleaner and is environmentally friendly. It works as a broad-spectrum disinfectant that works well on bacteria, viruses, spores and fungi.
Here is what our plumbers recommend to clean toilets.
The 20-minute cleaning rule (also known as the 20/10 rule) is a simple, time-boxed method to tackle household chores by cleaning with focused intensity for 20 minutes and then taking a 10-minute break, repeating as needed to prevent burnout and keep messes from piling up. It breaks large tasks into manageable sprints, making cleaning less overwhelming by focusing on progress over perfection through short, frequent sessions rather than marathon cleaning days, often tied to the FlyLady system or similar organizing principles.
Isopropyl alcohol is an effective disinfectant against many pathogens, including coronavirus, as long as the concentration is 70%. Most rubbing alcohols are 70% isopropyl alcohol, but concentrations can range from 60-99%.
Hibiclens – Antimicrobial and Antiseptic Soap and Skin Cleanser – 8oz – for Home and Hospital – 4% CHG.
Take a daily shower (or two, if you're in a hot, humid area), and pay extra attention to the regions with the apocrine glands. Use antibacterial soaps or cleansers designed to kill bacteria, like a benzoyl peroxide. Use antiperspirants with a higher percentage of active ingredients, or a prescription-strength option.
Products to avoid using in the vaginal area include:
Antibacterial soaps. Douching products.