When using disinfectants, the dilution should be according to the label.

When using disinfectants, the dilution should be according to the label.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Dilute according to the label
• D. Only for certain products

Answer: (C)

Disinfectant effectiveness hinges on using the product at the concentration the manufacturer tested and approved. The label tells you exactly how to dilute (or if it’s ready-to-use) and also specifies how long the disinfectant must stay wet on the surface (contact time) to kill the target microbes. Following those directions ensures you achieve the intended level of disinfection and protects surfaces, tools, and people from possible residue, irritation, or damage that can come from incorrect mixing. If you mix more concentrated than stated, you may create unsafe residues or irritants and you might not gain any additional antimicrobial benefit; if you dilute beyond what the label specifies, you can fail to disinfect effectively. Some products are ready-to-use and don’t require dilution, while others do, and the label will indicate which scenario applies.

Disinfectant effectiveness hinges on using the product at the concentration the manufacturer tested and approved. The label tells you exactly how to dilute (or if it’s ready-to-use) and also specifies how long the disinfectant must stay wet on the surface (contact time) to kill the target microbes. Following those directions ensures you achieve the intended level of disinfection and protects surfaces, tools, and people from possible residue, irritation, or damage that can come from incorrect mixing. If you mix more concentrated than stated, you may create unsafe residues or irritants and you might not gain any additional antimicrobial benefit; if you dilute beyond what the label specifies, you can fail to disinfect effectively. Some products are ready-to-use and don’t require dilution, while others do, and the label will indicate which scenario applies.