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Health

How do I Choose the Best Disinfecting Cleanser?

By Harriette Halepis
Updated May 17, 2024
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Choosing a disinfecting cleanser should be easy enough to do, but this isn't always the case. Since many cleansers contain harmful substances, it is important to use any disinfecting cleanser minimally. To do this, you will first have to determine the kind of mess that you want to clean up. Then, decide whether or not a disinfectant is the right kind of cleanser for the job.

Alcohol is a type of disinfectant that is used primarily to clean skin surface areas. While alcohol does effectively rid skin of bacteria, it is not effective when it is applied to a household bacterial area. Therefore, alcohol should not be used to clean counters, bathrooms, toilets, or any household appliance that may be crawling with bacteria.

Aldehyde is a disinfectant that is mostly used in dental offices to clean dental equipment. Therefore, aldehyde does work rather well, though this type of disinfecting cleanser has also been linked to health problems such as asthma. Aldehyde is also widely used to cleanse city water supplies, though is remains a controversial disinfectant.

Household bleach is another common disinfectant that contains sodium hypochlorite. Hypocholorite can be used to clean toilets, counters, and other household surfaces. This substance is not linked with any harmful side effects, which is why it is preferred over other disinfectants. Bleach, in stronger forms, can also be used to clean swimming pools.

There are also various natural disinfectants on the market. This type of disinfecting cleanser does not contain any harmful substances. Instead, natural products use herbs and other natural ingredients that are known for their disinfecting properties. In addition to being non-toxic, many of these products are also environmentally friendly.

A debate surrounding natural and chemical cleansers has been brewing for some time now. While many people believe that natural cleansers are better for one's health, others argue that chemical cleansers are not toxic if they are used properly. No matter what side of the debate you may be on, it's important to remember to use any disinfecting cleanser according to package directions.

It is also wise to properly vent any area that you intend to clean. While most people use disinfectants without any complications, it is never a bad idea to wear protective face gear in order to prevent inhalation of a toxic substance. Keep in mind that the area you intend to clean will determine the best disinfecting cleanser for the task at hand.

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Discussion Comments

By Rotergirl — On Oct 09, 2014

I use a disinfecting cleanser made by the Seventh Generation company. It doesn't have the strong fumes that a lot of cleansers have, and I also like the fact that it's not hazardous to my cats. It works pretty well.

Sometimes, if I need something really strong, I'll use a regular cleaner like 409 or something, but I do prefer to use my natural cleanser. It disinfects just as well as anything. If I have any doubts, I also will spray the surface down with vinegar. I can deal with the smell a lot better than the fumes from the other cleaners.

By Pippinwhite — On Oct 08, 2014

For most things, I use plain old white vinegar. It disinfects and the odor doesn't bother me. Better than bleach any day!

When I had a guinea pig, I always disinfected the cage bottom with baking soda and white vinegar. I knew those substances didn't have anything harmful in them, and they were great for cleaning the cage. I would sprinkle baking soda in the bottom and then pour vinegar over it. Of course, it bubbled and foamed, and the cage always smelled fresh and clean when I replaced the bedding. My piggies never had any reactions to it, so I would recommend it to anyone who wants a good, natural cleaning solution.

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