What is Disinfecting Spray?

Disinfecting spray is a household cleaning product that removes bacteria and germs from surfaces. It is particularly helpful in cleaning of bathrooms and kitchens where germs are most likely to be found. Families and businesses alike have found the product useful in preventing the spread of illnesses.

After its introduction in the late 1990s, disinfecting spray quickly rose in popularity. Day cares, schools, and businesses alike found them a useful tool in fighting sicknesses. They are commonly used on public phones, doorknobs, and computers in workplaces to avoid the spread of sicknesses.

Disinfecting sprays claim to remove many types of harmful microorganisms. Germs such as rhinovirus, streptococcus, hepatitis A, rotavirus, fungus, and listeria have a difficult time surviving when the sprays are used according to direction. Bacteria like Excherichia coli (E. coli), salmonella, and staphylococcus (staph) and viruses like influenza and herpes can also be killed by disinfecting spray. Some brands are even able to stop the spread of mold and mildew.

In order for the product to work, most brands of disinfecting spray require a waiting and drying period. The product is sprayed onto the surface to be cleaned and is left wet. The average waiting period is ten minutes before the product is dry and the area is considered disinfected.

These cleaning sprays are not intended for use as general room deodorizers. They are not to be inhaled more than through regular usage. They are considered safe around pets as long as caution is made to avoid prolonged exposure to inhaling. There are disinfecting room sprays intended specifically to remove odors. Consumers should always read labels carefully to ensure they are using the appropriate product for their needs.

Disinfecting spray is intended for use on hard, nonporous surfaces. Some sprays are not recommended for use on food preparation areas. Other manufacturers advise users to rinse food preparation areas clean after disinfecting. In all cases, it is important to read the manufacturers instructions and precautions, as these differ between products.

There are several major manufacturers of consumer grade disinfecting spray. It comes in a wide range of canister sizes and scents. Scents are customized to appeal to particular rooms in a house or seasons of the year.

It is possible for consumers to create their own disinfectant spray. A test run by food scientists at Virginia Polytechnic Institute found that homemade spray could work just as well. They used two spray bottles, one with 3% hydrogen peroxide, the other with white vinegar. Spray one, then the other and wipe. Vinegar works as a deodorizer while hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant.