Many people use the words cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting interchangeably.
But they are not the same thing. Cleaning removes dirt, oils, and debris. Disinfecting kills or inactivates microorganisms.
One group of ingredients commonly used for this purpose is known as Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, often referred to as Quats.
Common examples include:
One group of ingredients commonly used for this purpose is known as Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, often referred to as Quats.
Common examples include:
- Benzalkonium Chloride
- DDAC
- Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride
Some quat-based products are designed to leave behind a residue that continues providing antimicrobial activity after application. Studies have detected quaternary ammonium compounds in household dust and on indoor surfaces, indicating that exposure may continue beyond the cleaning process itself.
