Hand Sanitizer vs Wet Wipes

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

What are the best methods to combat germs & bacteria?

What are the best methods to combat germs & bacteria? The tried and true method of Hand Washing is most effective for cleaning your hands. Many though, are reaching for alternatives such as Hand Sanitizer or Wet Wipes. Is one more effective than the other?

Consider first, why hand washing is so effective. Our hands are filled with germs and bacteria, when we wash our hands, the mixture of hot water, soap, and drying helps break down that bacteria and wash it off our hands completely. 

However, after we leave the store or enter our car, we may reach for an alternative such as hand sanitizer or wet wipes. Whichever alternative we choose, we want to keep in mind a few things...

• The CDC recommends "using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol."

That information is important for us to know. Some sanitizers, and especially wet wipes do not meet that 60% requirement from the CDC. That percentage helps guarantee the most effectiveness. Some DIY recipes for sanitizers use only 40%, which will not effectively kill germs as well as 60% alcohol.

Important!!! Not all sanitizers and wet wipes are made the same.

Consider this, Benzalkonium chloride is an active ingredient in a popular wet wipe brand. This ingredient however, is less effective than alcohol or Ethanol found commonly in most sanitizers.

As we navigate this germ and virus filled world, we want to continue to educate ourselves to keep us and those we love safe and healthy. As you choose hand washing alternatives, follow the CDC's guidelines for most effectiveness.

If your facility or property needs sanitation or cleaning services, call us at (562) 392-3007.