Here's what each term actually means, why it matters, and when you need to do which.

Cleaning: removing what you can see

Cleaning means physically removing dirt, dust, grease and debris from a surface. Wiping a benchtop, mopping the floor, scrubbing the bath — that's cleaning, using water, soap or a general-purpose product to remove visible build-up.

It matters because it gets rid of the physical matter bacteria and viruses live in. But here's the key point: cleaning alone does not kill germs. It wipes some away, but a surface can look spotless and still carry harmful bacteria.

Disinfecting: killing what you can't see

Disinfecting uses a chemical product to kill bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. Disinfectants don't necessarily remove dirt — they target the microscopic organisms cleaning leaves behind. Common ones contain bleach, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol (at least 70%) or quaternary ammonium compounds.

Used correctly — left on the surface for the required contact time, usually 30 seconds to a few minutes — they kill the vast majority of harmful microorganisms. The catch: disinfecting works best on a surface that's already clean. If there's grease or grime in the way, the disinfectant can't reach the bacteria underneath.

The correct order: clean first, then disinfect

• Clean — remove visible dirt and grease with soap or a general cleaner
• Disinfect — apply the product and let it sit for the required contact time
• Allow to dry — most disinfectants need to air-dry to be fully effective

Swiping a surface with a single antibacterial wipe in one quick motion does neither job properly. In the spots where hygiene really matters, the two-step approach is worth it.

Where each matters most

Not every surface needs disinfecting every day. A practical guide:

• Clean regularly, disinfect when needed: floors, shelves, windows, general surfaces
• Clean and disinfect often: kitchen benchtops (especially after raw meat), bathroom sinks, toilets and taps, light switches, door handles, remotes, highchairs and feeding surfaces
• Disinfect after illness: anything touched by someone who's been sick — bathroom fixtures, handles, phones, shared items

What about 'antibacterial' products?

'Antibacterial' on a spray means it can kill some bacteria — but not necessarily viruses or fungi. A true disinfectant is registered and tested against a broader range of pathogens. If you're trying to kill a cold or flu virus, check the label specifically lists viruses and states a contact time.

The takeaway

• Cleaning removes dirt and physically reduces germs
• Disinfecting kills the germs that remain after cleaning
• You need both, in the right order, in the right places
• Not everything needs daily disinfecting — but some surfaces do