Disinfection has gained prominence amid the COVID-19 pandemic, heightening awareness of its role in hygiene. While handwashing has become routine, many Dutch people still disinfect high-touch surfaces in public spaces. However, a recent HG study reveals significant knowledge gaps: nearly 60% incorrectly believe all-purpose cleaners disinfect surfaces effectively. The Dutch also lag in routinely disinfecting everyday items like kitchen cabinets, phones, and remote controls.
Cleaning and disinfecting serve distinct purposes. Cleaning removes dirt, stains, and some germs from surfaces, but it doesn't eliminate them. True disinfection kills 99.9% of bacteria and microorganisms—a claim only verified products can make.
Strikingly, 58% of Dutch respondents don't grasp this distinction, assuming kitchen or all-purpose cleaners suffice. While 70% recognize alcohol's disinfecting power, few know it requires at least 70% concentration, which most standard cleaners lack. Only 42% know specialized disinfection cleaners target bacteria effectively, and just one-third are aware steaming disinfects. These findings come from HG's comprehensive consumer research.
High-touch items like phones, keyboards, remote controls, and mice demand regular disinfection, yet many neglect them. HG's study shows 30% never disinfect phones, 25% skip kitchen cabinet handles, and 32% ignore remote controls. Cutting boards (38%) and countertops (37%) fare slightly better.
Jeroen Mustert, CEO of HG, comments: “It’s wise to target high-touch items and bacteria hotspots like kitchens and bathrooms with products proven to kill 99.9% of microorganisms. Unfortunately, limited knowledge hinders effective disinfection.”
Disinfection isn't always essential—regular cleaning removes some germs but not all. Killing resilient microbes on shared surfaces like door handles or remotes requires specialized products. Mustert adds: “Kitchens and bathrooms are high-risk zones where germs can linger for days. Few cleaners both disinfect and suit daily use. We urge consumers to learn proper methods and prioritize these areas.”
