What are Disinfectants?
Disinfectants are chemical agents applied to non-living objects in order to destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, mildew or mold living on the objects. By definition, disinfectant formulas must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The active ingredient in each disinfectant chemistry is what destroys pathogens, typically by disrupting or damaging their cells. Active ingredients are usually aided by other ingredients in the disinfectant. As an example, surfactants can be added to a disinfectant formula to provide consistent wetting on a surface, or to help in cleaning.
Main Types of Disinfectants
Several broad categories of disinfectants are used in commercial and industrial facility maintenance. Below are some of the most common types. While not an exhaustive list, these cover the large majority used today, and the types of disinfectants we offer.
1. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (commonly called Quats)
A top choice for disinfection in hospital and institutional settings because of their low cost and quick action against a wide range of pathogens and microorganisms, Quats can be formulated with a variety of detergents to provide both cleaning and disinfecting ability. A2Z, Zogics and Vital Oxide are examples of quat-based disinfectants with both cleaning power and broad spectrum kill claims for many common and dangerous bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
2. Hypochlorous Acid
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCL) was discovered centuries ago as a germ-killing agent. HOCL is created by combining water and salt through a patent pending electrolyzing process. This creates an oxidized, antimicrobial solution capable of killing many pathogens in a variety of environments. Not only does HOCL disinfect surfaces quickly and safely, it also sanitizes and deodorizes. Hypochlorous Acid Disinfectant is an example of a HOCL disinfectant, ideal for use in healthcare settings and food preparation processing.
We also offer EvaClean's PURTABS; the active agent of these disinfectants is sodium dichloroisocyanurate (shortened to NaDCC), which when dissolved in water creates HOCL.
3. Alcohol
When diluted in water, alcohols are effective against a wide range of bacteria, though higher concentrations are often needed to disinfect wet surfaces. The downsides? They evaporate quickly (and therefore may not remain on the surface long enough to kill), they’re flammable, and they may not have organic soil tolerance claims, meaning they may not be effective when organic matter (blood, for example) is present in the area being disinfected. Most often, you'll see alcohol-based disinfectants in use as wet wipes or sprays. We offer alcohol-based cleaning wipes that provide you with ample coverage to wipe down and sanitize almost any surface with a single cloth. The 75% ethyl-alcohol formula is gentle and effective, quick to evaporate, and safe to use on skin, as well as solid objects and surfaces, such as plastic, laminates, metals, glass, plexiglass screens and rubber.
4. Emerging technologies
New to the disinfection arena are products that contain metals such as silver or copper, which naturally act as antimicrobial agents. We offer Silver Defender, the only product of its kind to have initiated EPA pesticide registration, which is tape that contains an antimicrobial agent to protect the film from bacteria, mold, mildew and fungi to ensure the product is clean. Silver ions react with and affect multiple sites in bacterial cells on the surface of the film, to keep the film clean. This easy-to-install tape is perfect for high touch point areas like door handles, elevator buttons, credit card machines, and more.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Disinfectant
There are four primary considerations you should evaluate when choosing a disinfectant to best meet the needs of your facility. Answering these questions will give you a framework for helping determine the best product or products to use.
1. Does a disinfectant kill the microbes and pathogens that are of top concern to your facility?
Depending on your industry and facility type – healthcare, education, long-term care, hospitality, fitness – you will have varying needs and requirements.
We understand that you're highly concerned about SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and making sure that your disinfectant is effective against this virus. All of the disinfectants we offer are on the EPA's List N of approved disinfectants to kill COVID-19.
2. How quickly does a disinfectant kill a pathogen?
Disinfectant formulas are registered to kill specific pathogens in a specific amount of time, and they need to be wet on a surface the entire time to be actively working (this is called dwell time). Thirty seconds to 10 minutes could be a typical kill time. If a disinfectant needs 10 minutes, be sure it will actually stay wet that long to achieve the needed dwell time. Alcohol-based disinfectants may evaporate before their required contact time. Read and follow all label directions for use and rewetting if necessary.
3. Is the product safe to use for people, and for the surfaces it's used on?
Some categories of disinfectants are toxic, some may stain fabrics and porous surfaces, others are corrosive, yet others have an undesirable odor. Check toxicity and flammability ratings on any disinfectant products, as well as any personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations for disinfectants you apply. Be sure a disinfectant will not damage any surface it is intended for.
4. Is the disinfectant, and its application method, practical for your facility?
Some applications require multiple steps that may not always be feasible. Water hardness is one factor that can impact the effectiveness of some disinfectant formulas. Many of our disinfectants, like A2Z and Vital Oxide, clean and disinfect in just one step, making them a top choice for an easy, ready-to-use use disinfectant that addresses a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, fungi and mildew in hospitals, educational facilities, fitness and beyond. These are applied via microfiber cloths, disposable towels, and mops.
Using an electrostatic sprayer? We recommend Hypochlorous Acid Surface Disinfectant (and if you're using a Protexus sprayer, we recommend PURTABS).
Buy Commercial Disinfectant Sprays and Sanitizers by the Best Brands at Zogics
We’re here to help you choose the best disinfectant cleaners for your business from an array of leading brands so you can maintain a sparkling, safe facility. Whether you’re looking for bulk cleaners from Protexus, Lysol disinfectant sprays, Purell surface sanitizers, or products made by other well-known brands, you’ll find the top cleaning supplies you need at Zogics. We also carry a selection of our very own wholesale facility maintenance products, allowing you to shop our in-house line of high-quality disinfectant cleaners alongside the industry’s premier cleaning solutions brands all in one place
Browse Commercial Sanitizers & Disinfectants by Type at Zogics
You also can start your search by filtering for the different types of disinfectant cleaning products you need to encourage health and well-being at your business. Choose from aerosol disinfectants, surface sanitizers, disinfecting tablets, and more. Investing in the best commercial sanitizing supplies ensures that your employees and guests will benefit from a clean, safe environment all year round. At Zogics, we carry everything from all-purpose cleaners to metal disinfectants—you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for and more when you shop wholesale cleaners, sanitizer sprays, and more at Zogics.
We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and spray disinfectant products so please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are commercial disinfectants and how do they work? add
Commercial disinfectants are chemical products that are used to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces and in the air. They typically contain active ingredients such as chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds, which work to break down the cell walls of microorganisms, making them unable to function or reproduce.
Are commercial disinfectants safe for use on all surfaces and materials? add
Most commercial disinfectants are safe for use on a variety of hard surfaces and materials, but it's important to check the label for any specific warnings or precautions. Some disinfectants may not be safe for use on certain types of surfaces, such as certain types of plastics, soft surfaces like fabrics, or painted surfaces.
How often should commercial disinfectants be used to ensure proper sanitation? add
The frequency of use for commercial disinfectants will depend on the specific setting and the level of foot traffic or potential exposure to germs and bacteria. In general, high-traffic areas or areas where people are known to be sick should be disinfected more frequently than other areas.
Are commercial disinfectants effective against all types of viruses and pathogens? add
Commercial disinfectants are effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, it's important to note that different disinfectants may be more effective against certain types of germs and bacteria, so it's important to choose the right product for the specific task at hand.
How to properly apply and store commercial disinfectants? add
To properly apply and store commercial disinfectants, you should always follow the instructions on the label. This may include diluting the product with water, wearing gloves and protective eyewear, and properly labeling and storing the product to prevent accidental exposure.
Are commercial disinfectants harmful to human health or the environment? add
Most commercial disinfectants are safe for use and do not pose a significant risk to human health or the environment when used as directed. However, it's important to follow all safety precautions and guidelines on the label, and to avoid using excessive amounts of the product.
Are there any commercial disinfectants that are safe for use around food and beverage areas? add
Yes, some commercial disinfectants are labeled as safe for use around food and beverage areas, such as hydrogen peroxide and Quats. It's important to always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
What are the proper application methods for commercial disinfectants? add
Proper application methods for commercial disinfectants include diluting the product according to the manufacturer's instructions and using a clean cloth or mop to apply it to surfaces. It's also important to allow the disinfectant to remain on surfaces for the amount of time specified on the label (dwell time) before wiping or rinsing away.
How long should a commercial disinfectant remain on surfaces before being wiped or rinsed away? add
The dwell time or amount of time a commercial disinfectant should remain on surfaces before being wiped or rinsed away will vary depending on the product and the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, it ranges from a few minutes to 10 minutes. Refer to the label of your disinfectant for the appropriate dwell time.
