What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sanitizing
Example
I always make sure to sanitize my hands before eating. [sanitize: verb]
Example
The restaurant staff is responsible for sanitizing all surfaces after each use. [sanitizing: present participle]
disinfecting
Example
The hospital uses powerful disinfectants to keep the environment sterile. [disinfectants: noun]
Example
It's important to disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of germs. [disinfect: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disinfecting is more commonly used than sanitizing in everyday language, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, both terms are widely used in healthcare and food service industries.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sanitizing and disinfecting?
Disinfecting is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it is often used in medical and scientific contexts. Sanitizing is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
