Cleaning wipes are pre-moistened disposable cloths that are used for quick cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces. Different types include household cleaning wipes that use soap or detergent to remove messes from home appliances and tables without disinfecting chemicals. These can include disinfecting wipes that are used to kill bacteria and viruses on hard surfaces like computer desks and bathroom fixtures. They also include specialty wipes like screen cleaning wipes that safely clean electronic screens.

The main difference between cleaning wipes and disinfecting wipes is that cleaning wipes physically remove messes like dirt, dust and grease from a surface using soap or detergent, while disinfecting wipes use chemicals to actively kill bacteria, viruses and other pathogens on hard surfaces. For the best results, you should use a combination of both when cleaning surfaces like refrigerators, coffee makers, tables and desks.

The main difference between disinfecting wipes and sanitizing wipes is the level of germ-killing power they have and the types of microorganisms they remove from surfaces. Disinfecting wipes kill nearly all harmful bacteria and viruses on a surface, while sanitizing wipes lower the number of bacteria on a surface to safe levels. For additional levels of cleanliness, be sure to stock up on hand soap and hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean.

When using disinfecting wipes, you don’t have to rinse after cleaning regular surfaces like shelves, desks, tables and on household appliances. However, you must rinse surfaces that touch food, like counters or dining tables, or items children touch or could put in their mouths like toys or high chairs. Rinse these surfaces with clean water after the disinfecting cleaner has sat on the surface for the required time.