In healthcare, the goal of cleaning is straightforward: eliminate harmful germs while keeping environments safe for everyone. But here’s what many facility managers and janitorial teams don’t realize—some commonly used disinfectants contain ingredients that can do more harm than good, especially in areas like waiting rooms where vulnerable patients and children may spend extended periods.
From respiratory triggers to surface degradation, it’s time to look beyond the label and reevaluate what’s really in your cleaning products.
🚫 Ingredients That Cause More Problems Than They Solve
Let’s start with the big ones:
1. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (“Quats”)
Often found in standard disinfecting sprays and wipes, quats can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues in sensitive individuals. Long-term exposure in enclosed spaces (like exam rooms or waiting areas) can aggravate asthma or allergies, especially among children and immunocompromised patients.
2. Strong Alcohols (Ethanol, Isopropyl Alcohol 70%+)
While effective at disinfection, high-alcohol content formulas can dry out skin, irritate eyes, and degrade materials over time—think vinyl seats, coated wood arms, or monitor surfaces. In poorly ventilated spaces, alcohol vapors can also contribute to indoor air quality issues.
3. Fragrances and Dyes
Added to mask harsh chemical smells, synthetic fragrances are a major source of allergic reactions and headaches in shared spaces. They’re often not fully disclosed on labels and are unnecessary for clinical-grade cleaning.
4. Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)
A common go-to for tough disinfecting jobs, bleach has no place in patient-facing spaces. It can discolor furniture, corrode medical equipment, and contribute to eye and lung irritation, especially in people with chronic illness or asthma.
🪑 How to Clean Soft Seating the Right Way
Soft surfaces like upholstered benches, armchairs, and playroom furniture often get skipped—or sprayed with the wrong product. Here’s how to handle them properly:
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Frequency: Disinfect high-touch soft surfaces at least once per day. Increase frequency during cold/flu season or high patient volume periods.
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Method: Use disinfectant wipes that are safe for soft surfaces—free of alcohol and harsh solvents.
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Technique: Spot test first, then wipe visibly soiled areas and allow adequate drying time. Don't oversaturate cushions or fabrics.
👷♀️ What to Train Your Cleaning Team to Look For
Empowering your janitorial or environmental services staff can make all the difference. Include these in your next staff training:
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Check ingredients before using new or unfamiliar products
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Avoid fragrance-heavy products in pediatric or allergen-sensitive units
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Rotate between disinfectants that are equipment-safe and surface-specific
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Use disposable wipes instead of spray-and-cloth methods to reduce cross-contamination
Provide teams with clear product safety data sheets (SDS), visual examples of approved products, and simple wipe-based alternatives like SONO Disinfecting Wipes for daily use.
💡 Why Safer Wipes Matter
SONO Disinfecting Wipes are:
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Free from alcohol, bleach, and ammonia
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Fragrance- and dye-free
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Safe for use around sensitive skin and on a wide range of surfaces
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EPA-registered with broad-spectrum efficacy
They’re engineered specifically for healthcare environments where daily disinfection is non-negotiable but patient comfort and safety are equally important.
Final Word: Choose Products with Patients in Mind
It’s not just about how often you clean—it’s what you clean with. The ingredients in your disinfectants directly impact air quality, surface safety, and patient wellbeing. Waiting rooms, reception desks, and shared spaces should feel clean, not just look clean.
Switching to safer, low-irritant disinfecting wipes is one small change that protects patients, staff, and your facility’s reputation long-term.