Health & hygiene
These three words mean different things. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right step — and set realistic expectations for carpet.
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By the SoCal Steam Clean team · Published · Updated
See CDC guidance.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Removes dirt and many germs |
| Sanitizing | Lowers germ numbers |
| Disinfecting | Kills most germs on surfaces per label |
Most disinfectants are labeled for hard, nonporous surfaces. Carpet cleaning removes soil and residue; we don't make medical claims.
Use EPA-registered products as labeled.
Important: Never mix bleach with ammonia or acids.
See carpet sanitizing, water damage and green cleaning.
We don't make disinfection claims for carpet; cleaning removes soil and residue.
How long the surface must stay wet with disinfectant.
CDC suggests disinfecting when someone is sick or after specific risks.
No; it removes color.
Porous materials are usually removed.
Written by the SoCal Steam Clean team
SoCal Steam Clean is an IICRC Certified Firm providing carpet, upholstery, tile and grout cleaning and water damage restoration across San Diego County, California. About us
Home careBathroom and toilet cleaning in San Diego: surfaces, hygiene and safe products4 min readEco-friendly cleaningChoose green cleaning in San Diego: evaluating eco claims and certifications4 min read
Water damageDealing with the headache of water damage in San Diego: assessment, contamination and drying4 min readTell us about your carpet and we'll confirm pricing on-site. Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
5-star rated on Yelp and Google — see for yourself
5-star rated on Yelp and Google
Over 1,500 Yelp and 1,600 Google reviews — check them for yourself, then book with confidence.
