Page 80 - School Infection Control Handbook - 2010
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Chapter 4: Selection of Products, Dispensing Equipment, and Application Systems
75
Chapter 4.G. Selecting a Disinfectant Application System
Introduction
Several application options are available for disinfecting surfaces or objects. The following chart provides a comparison of the options and the
criteria used to evaluate those options. Some criteria have to do with reducing exposure to the employee and building occupants; other criteria
have to do with maintaining the efficacy of the disinfectant. Although some options are more preferable for reasons of health and efficacy, they are
not always available. The chart is therefore designed help identify ways to meet the need for disinfection in a variety of settings.
It should be noted that research has found that microfiber has superior infection-control properties. Discussion continues on what impact the
quality of microfiber has on the ability to retain this superiority as the cloths or mops are washed and reused.
Criteria
Conventional
Mop and Bucket
Microfiber Mop
Pads and Bucket
Reusable Microfiber
Cloths
Reusable
Cotton
Cloths
Disposable Cotton
or Paper Towels
Presaturated
Wipes for Surfaces
Effectiveness at
Capturing and
Removing
Microbes
Captured 30% of
microbes in a
hospital setting
study
1
Superior – captured
99% microbes in a
hospital setting study
1
The type of
microfiber may
determine its
effectiveness
See
Chapter 6.C.
Using Microfiber
Cloths and Mops for
Infection Control
for
more information
Superior – Its small
fibers enable it to
penetrate cracks that
cotton cloths or paper
towels cannot
Increased fiber surface
area and static electric
charge enable it to
attract, capture, and
hold particulates better
than other alternatives
2
The type of microfiber
affects efficacy
Significantly
less than
microfiber
Significantly less
than microfiber
Significantly less
than microfiber
Efficacy
(a measure of
how well
products killed
or removed
microbes)
30% in a hospital-
setting study
1
Solution must be
changed regularly
to maintain
efficacy
99% in a hospital-
setting study
1
Superior according to
most research
Good
Less capable of
capturing microbes
than microfiber or
cotton
Depends on
saturation of wipe
and ability to stay
wet on the surface
Solution remains
stable in the
presence of the wipe
material
