Cleaner vs. Disinfectant: What’s the Real Difference?

Walk down any cleaning aisle and it’s easy to assume that “cleaner” and “disinfectant” mean the same thing. But the truth is, they do two very different jobs and understanding that difference can help you make healthier choices for your home.

Cleaners vs. Disinfectants: What They Actually Do

Cleaners work by lifting and removing dirt, grease, and germs from a surface so you can wipe them away. Think of them as the first and often most important step in creating a healthy environment.

Disinfectants

Disinfectants are chemical agents designed to kill germs on contact. Many rely on harsh ingredients such as bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), or strong synthetic fragrances. While they can be useful in specific situations, they’re not always necessary for everyday cleaning.

Why We Choose Cleaning Over Disinfecting

1. Health First

Frequent exposure to disinfectant chemicals can irritate the lungs and skin, and some have been linked to hormone disruption. For families, pets, and anyone with sensitivities, that’s a real concern.

2. No Thanks to Superbugs

Overusing disinfectants may contribute to the development of resistant strains of bacteria something none of us want in our homes.

3. Everyday Effectiveness

For most household surfaces, physically removing grime and microbes with a well-formulated natural cleaner is more than enough. Unless you're dealing with something like raw chicken juices or a stomach bug, cleaning alone keeps your space healthy and safe.

And here’s a little-known fact straight from many disinfectant labels: even after disinfecting, you’re supposed to clean again to remove the chemical residue left behind.

The “Dwell Time” Dilemma

Most disinfectant labels list a “dwell time”, the amount of time a surface must stay visibly wet in order for the product to kill bacteria and viruses. This usually ranges from 5 to 10 minutes.

But in real life? Sprayed surfaces dry quickly, and most people wipe them almost immediately. Without continuous wet contact for the full dwell time, disinfectants don’t actually deliver the germ-killing results they promise.

Liquid Earth: Naturally Powerful Cleaning

At Liquid Earth, we believe in cleaning that supports your health, not compromises it.

Our plant-based formulas break down grease, lift away dirt, and freshen your home without harsh chemicals that linger in your air or on your skin. The result? A clean that’s truly fresh.

Stay well,
The Liquid Earth Team