An air sanitizer is a substance that works to combat infectious or otherwise harmful organisms found in open air. Chemical sprays typically comprise this substance, and some machines may emit disinfectant sprays and thus be known as air sanitizers. When the aerosol substance is dispensed, its individual particles can linger in the air for several hours and ideally kill any bacteria and bacterial spores it encounters.
Several substances are foes of the air sanitizer. A primary health benefit results from the systematic targeting and elimination of infectious viruses. When an individual sneezes, for example, the air sanitizer can potentially neutralize the emitted virus particles before they settle onto household objects. Bacteria and fungi are other common pests that air sanitizers may help vanquish.
The components of an air sanitizer can clean air in several ways. Besides directly targeting harmful agents, sanitizers may also make conditions inhospitable for these organisms to survive and thrive. If the organism cannot grow and develop — if it cannot be properly nourished — then it will likely die. In addition to eliminating microorganisms that might make other living things in the vicinity sick, using sanitizer might also help curtail odor-causing bacteria.
Some primary substances are found in most types of sanitizers. A clear liquid known as triethylene glycol is particularly prized for disinfectant purposes because it works well with other materials, it lacks odor, and it is a safe substance to use in enclosed spaces. Perhaps most importantly, this substance has demonstrated success when combating many forms of bacteria.
Certain areas can benefit greatly from an air sanitizer. Any room or enclosed space that has potentially high microbe counts can use increased sanitation. This might include hospital or dental offices. In the home, common sites for air sanitizer placement might range from the bathroom to the bedroom.
Some individuals may confuse an air sanitizer with an air purifier. While both work to provide cleaner, healthier air for breathing, some differences do exist. For one, air sanitizers are primarily disinfectants that target living organisms. Air purifiers, on the other hand, can capture other small particles that might pose a health risk like allergens. In addition, air purifiers operate by trapping particles and other substances within a piece of machinery.
Air sanitizers, however, can eliminate dangers by being sprayed in the air. As such, sanitizers cover a greater area than purifiers. Further, air sanitizers differ from sanitizing products applied to living surfaces, such as antiseptics and hand sanitizers.