What is an effective way to sanitize high-touch areas in the home, such as doorknobs and light switches?

High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, faucet handles, and remote controls are frequently contacted by multiple household members and can harbour bacteria and viruses. Disinfecting with a product containing EPA-registered disinfectants is the most effective method to sanitize these areas.

EPA-registered (Environmental Protection Agency-registered) disinfectants have been tested and proven to kill specific pathogens on surfaces when used according to the label instructions. They are formulated at concentrations sufficient to destroy bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making them far more effective than general cleaning alone.

The other methods are inadequate for proper sanitization:

• Vacuuming removes loose dust and debris from surfaces but does not kill microorganisms. It is appropriate for floors and upholstery, not for sanitizing hard surfaces.
• Spraying a gentle cleaner and wiping with a paper towel may remove visible dirt and some surface bacteria, but general-purpose cleaners are not formulated to kill pathogens. Cleaning removes contaminants; disinfecting kills them.
• Using a dry cloth to dust merely redistributes dust particles and does nothing to eliminate microorganisms from the surface.

The distinction between cleaning (removing dirt) and disinfecting (killing germs) is important: effective home sanitation requires both steps, with disinfection being essential for high-touch areas.