In the wake of COVID-19, knowing how to use disinfectant products is essential. Individuals and businesses have ramped up their use of hand sanitizers to try and stop the spread. Likewise, every hospital, medical facility, and wellness company has signs everywhere explaining the importance of frequent handwashing.
However, there are some important differences between soap and hand sanitizer that everyone needs to understand. Using the right product at the right time can help you avoid illness and keep your environment clean.
What Does Soap Do?
We all learn how to wash our hands as children. However, do you know what soap does, exactly? Of course, we all know that soap cleanses the skin from germs. But what makes it different from hand sanitizer?
Soap has antimicrobial properties to fight viruses, funguses, and bacteria. Additionally, it removes dirt, dust, and oil from the skin. Some types even have moisturizing properties that help restore your hands after using harsh disinfectants.
What Does Hand Sanitizer Do?
You might think that hand sanitizer does the same thing as soap. The truth is that these products are incredibly different and serve separate purposes.
While soap cleanses, hand sanitizer disinfects. You’ll need to use a product with at least 60 percent alcohol to effectively kill germs with sanitizing solutions. Since they’re highly flammable, proper hand sanitizer disposal is essential to protect the general public.
Which One Should You Use?
The main difference between soap and hand sanitizer is that they have different functions. Soap doesn’t always kill 100 percent of germs, but it does clean surfaces. On the other hand, hand sanitizer doesn’t refresh your hands, but it does kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria.
You should use both products to maintain good hygiene. Washing your hands whenever you sneeze, cough, or use the bathroom is the best way to contain germs. However, hand sanitizer works great if you’re on the go or don’t otherwise have access to a sink.
Make sure you’re stocking your home health supplies with plenty of soap and hand sanitizer to keep your space clean and germ free. Along with good hand washing techniques, you can use these products to improve your health and protect others from potentially devastating diseases.
