Disinfectants are crucial in maintaining hygiene across various settings, from homes to hospitals and commercial spaces. However, not all disinfectants deliver the level of protection people expect. Many assume that simply spraying or wiping a surface with a disinfectant ensures complete eradication of harmful microorganisms. Unfortunately, several factors can diminish the effectiveness of disinfectants, leaving surfaces contaminated and increasing the risk of infections. Issues such as improper application, contact time, environmental conditions, and organic matter’s presence can all impact these products’ efficacy.

Some disinfectants fail due to outdated formulations or resistance developed by specific pathogens. Understanding why some disinfectants underperform is essential for making informed choices and ensuring that cleaning efforts lead to safer environments.  

Factors That Affect Disinfectant Efficacy

1. Improper Application

One of the most common reasons disinfectants do not work effectively is improper use. Many users spray a disinfectant and immediately wipe it away, assuming the surface is sanitized. However, disinfectants require a specific dwell time—the duration they need to remain wet on a surface to kill pathogens effectively. If the product is removed too soon, it does not have enough time to neutralize bacteria and viruses, reducing efficiency.

Another mistake is inadequate coverage. Spraying disinfectant on a small portion of a surface and spreading it thinly does not ensure proper disinfection. Surfaces must be fully saturated; even distribution is crucial for effective pathogen elimination.

2. Resistance of Microorganisms

Over time, certain bacteria and viruses can develop resistance to disinfectants, much like antibiotic resistance. This occurs when microorganisms are repeatedly exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of disinfectants, allowing them to adapt and survive. Some pathogens, such as Clostridium difficile and norovirus, have shown resilience against common disinfecting agents, making it necessary to use products specifically formulated to combat these strains.

3. Contact Time Misconceptions

Many disinfectants require a contact time of several minutes to achieve full effectiveness. However, many people assume a quick spray and wipe are sufficient. For instance, some hospital-grade disinfectants require up to 10 minutes to kill certain bacteria and viruses. Failing to follow manufacturer instructions on contact time significantly reduces effectiveness.

4. Organic Matter And Surface Contamination

Dirt, grease, and biofilms can shield microorganisms from disinfectants. Organic matter, such as food residues and bodily fluids, can act as a protective barrier, preventing the disinfectant from reaching the pathogens. This is why cleaning a surface before disinfecting is crucial. Without pre-cleaning, the disinfectant may be ineffective as it gets neutralized by organic material rather than acting directly on microbes.

5. Environmental Conditions

Environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, and pH, can influence disinfectant performance.

• Temperature – Some disinfectants perform poorly in extreme cold or heat. For instance, certain quaternary ammonium compounds (QUATs) become less effective in freezing conditions.
• pH Levels – The effectiveness of some disinfectants varies depending on surface pH. For example, bleach works best in slightly acidic conditions but loses efficacy in alkaline environments.
• Humidity – High humidity can dilute disinfectant solutions, while low humidity can cause them to evaporate too quickly, reducing contact time.

6. Outdated Or Ineffective Formulations

Not all disinfectants are created equal. Some formulations have remained unchanged for decades, failing to keep up with evolving pathogens. Others may be diluted to ineffective concentrations, reducing their ability to eliminate tough bacteria and viruses. Many consumer-grade disinfectants lack the potency required for high-risk environments, giving a false sense of security.

Common Myths About Disinfectants

Myth 1 – All Disinfectants Kill 99.9% Of Germs

While many disinfectants claim to kill 99.9% of germs, their effectiveness depends on the conditions in which they are used. Some disinfectants only target specific pathogens, leaving others untouched.

Myth 2 – More Disinfectant Equals Better Protection

Using excess disinfectant does not enhance its effectiveness. Overuse can lead to residue buildup, which can attract dirt and bacteria, reducing sanitation levels rather than improving them.

Myth 3 – Disinfectants Work Instantly

Many believe that disinfectants work the moment they are applied. However, without sufficient contact time, even high-quality products will not effectively eliminate pathogens.

Choosing the Right Disinfectant for Effective Cleaning

When choosing a disinfectant, consider the following:

• Ensure the product is effective against various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Select disinfectants with reasonable dwell times that match practical cleaning schedules.
• Some disinfectants can damage certain surfaces or react poorly with other cleaning chemicals.
• Avoid products with excessive toxicity that could pose health risks to humans or pets.

The Best Disinfectants For Commercial Settings

New Wave Cleaning Solutions offers industry-leading disinfectants such as Sani-Quat and Kam San Quatro for superior sanitation in commercial environments. These products are specifically designed to tackle high-traffic and high-risk areas, ensuring maximum pathogen elimination.

These products can withstand real-world challenges, including resistance and environmental factors hindering other disinfectants. By using these high-quality products, businesses can maintain a safer, cleaner environment for employees and customers.

For details about our superior quality disinfecting products, call New Wave Cleaning Solutions at 702.982.0881 or fill out our online form!