Surface disinfection: why contact time matters

A wipe only works if the surface stays wet for the labelled contact time. Here is how to pick the right chemistry.

What contact time means

Every disinfectant label lists a contact time — the time a surface must stay visibly wet to achieve the claimed kill.

Choosing a chemistry

Bleach wipes are broad-spectrum but can damage some surfaces; quat-alcohol wipes act quickly on equipment; hydrogen peroxide wipes balance speed with surface compatibility.

Training staff

Follow the label, use enough wipes to keep the surface wet, and train staff on the difference between cleaning and disinfecting.