The Importance of Disinfectant Wipes in the Workplace
Disinfectant wipes are an essential part of any workplace. Not only do they kill germs, but they also make cleaning easier.
They’re a great alternative to sponges, dishrags, and paper towels. However, it’s essential to follow their instructions for the best results.
They Kill Germs
Disinfectant wipes contain chemicals that kill germs in two ways: they either destroy them (lethal action) or break them down so they can’t reproduce (growth inhibition).
These ingredients are usually hydrogen peroxide, isopropyl alcohol, or ethanol. They also contain quaternary ammonium compounds, which are antimicrobial.
In addition to killing germs, disinfectant wipes are also helpful for cleaning surfaces, which helps prevent diseases from spreading. They can also help reduce the risk of slipping, falling, and other common workplace accidents.
When you buy sanitizing wipes, some features are also made with biodegradable natural materials, making them more environmentally friendly. However, the chemicals used to make them are unsuitable for our health or the environment, so they should be discarded in the trash and not flushed down the toilet, as this can clog pipes and cause sewage backups.
If you’re looking for a way to reduce your environmental impact, try using biodegradable disinfecting products, like Lysol or Clorox, which both produce biodegradable wipes. Be sure to read the labels carefully and throw them in the trash after use.
Disinfectant wipes can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi in minutes. They work by destroying pathogens’ cell membranes and proteins, says Rodney Rohde, Ph.D., associate dean of research and professor of virology at Texas State University.
They Prevent Diseases
Disinfectant wipes are crucial for businesses and institutions that want to maintain high hygiene standards. They are easy to use, effective at killing germs, and keep surfaces clean between sanitizing services.
Keeping a clean and sterile workplace is critical for the safety and well-being of employees. This is especially true in crowded spaces, where germs can quickly spread from one person to another, says Rodney Rohde, Ph.D., associate dean of research and professor of virology at Texas State University.
According to Rohde, when disinfecting challenging surface areas, such as tables and chairs, disinfectant wipes are effective at destroying bacteria, viruses, and fungi in 10 minutes or less after application. They can also prevent new germs from forming.
While there are many different disinfectant wipes on the market, it’s crucial to choose a product that is EPA-registered or FDA-approved and contains no toxic or hazardous ingredients. These formulas have been subject to extensive testing and have been proven to be effective at killing germs.
Wipes should stay visibly wet for a long time to work effectively, according to the manufacturer’s directions. The amount of time will vary by product and the type of germs you’re trying to kill, but it can range from 15 seconds to 10 minutes.
To prevent the spread of diseases, disinfectant wipes should be conveniently available to employees at all times. Organize these products in easy-to-reach locations, such as on every employee’s desk or breakroom counters. This will encourage employees to use them regularly and help limit the spread of illness in your workplace.
They Keep You Healthy
Disinfectant wipes are a great way to keep your workplace clean and safe. They are instrumental when used regularly to disinfect shared, high-touch surfaces.
Whether in high-traffic areas, like conference rooms and break rooms, or in hallways, light switches, and doorknobs, it is essential to have your janitorial staff place disinfecting wipes where they’re most likely to be touched by occupants. It is also a good idea to communicate (emails, posters, signs) when and how disinfecting wipes should be used throughout the facility to encourage use.
While wipes do kill germs, they are not effective at doing so unless you use them correctly. Depending on the wipe, they need to remain wet for a time ranging from 15 seconds to 10 minutes to be effective.
It’s easy to mishandle disinfecting wipes, lowering their effectiveness. For example, most wipes are not designed to be rubbed directly on the skin or hands, so they do not work as well when applied this way.
If you choose to wipe your hands or surfaces with a disinfecting wipe, buying a product registered with the Environmental Protection Agency as an EPA-approved wipe is best. The EPA lists approved products that kill bacteria, viruses, and mold.
It’s also essential to buy cleaning wipes made from a material that is biodegradable and non-toxic, such as organic cotton or paper towels. This will ensure that the wipes are not causing harm to your environment and will reduce landfill waste. Wipes that contain petroleum-based polyester may not decompose, contributing to sewage and landfill problems.
They Help You Stay Organized
Disinfectant wipes are a great way to eliminate dust and dirt on your keyboard, mouse, printer, and other work surfaces. They are also a handy way to clean off bacteria and germs got on your hands.
One of the essential benefits of disinfecting wipes is that they make cleaning quick and easy. For example, if you spill something on your desk, you must wipe it with a disinfecting wipe, and you’re good to go!
Another benefit is that they can help you stay organized in the workplace. For example, if you keep a container of wipes at each employee’s workstation, it’s easy for you to grab a couple to sanitize your laptop screen or keyboard. You can even put the containers in cabinets to always have wipes at your fingertips.
Lastly, disinfecting wipes can also help you save money in the long run. They can reduce costly disinfecting solutions you must purchase separately, like a chemical cleaner or sanitizer spray.
Ultimately, the best way to improve your business’s hygiene and overall productivity is by providing employees with disinfecting wipes and encouraging them to use them. This will not only reduce your healthcare costs, but it will also make your workplace a more pleasant place to be, both for yourself and your coworkers.