What is sterilization and disinfection

In general, it is very important to keep the living and working environment clean. But this does not mean disinfecting or sterilizing. The purpose of disinfecting and sterilizing is that if we touch something, if it is safe and free from germs and viruses.

Sterilization and disinfection are crucial processes in maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of infections in various environments, from healthcare facilities to households. While both terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct methods with different goals and outcomes. Let's delve into the differences between sterilization and disinfection to gain a deeper understanding of these essential practices.

Sterilization is the process of completely eliminating all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, from an object or surface. The goal of sterilization is to create a completely sterile environment where there is no risk of microbial contamination. This process is typically achieved through methods such as heat (autoclaving), chemical sterilants, radiation, or filtration. Sterilization is crucial in environments where absolute cleanliness is necessary, such as surgical instruments, medical devices, and laboratory equipment.

Disinfection, on the other hand, is the process of reducing the number of viable microorganisms on a surface to a level that is considered safe for public health. Unlike sterilization, which aims to eliminate all microbes, disinfection targets specific pathogens and significantly reduces their numbers. Disinfection methods include using chemical agents such as bleach, alcohol-based solutions,  and non alcohol - based disinfection or ULV disinfection to kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms. Disinfection is commonly used in healthcare settings, food preparation areas, and households to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.