Cleaning and disinfection have become hot topics in the wake of Covid-19, with new emphasis on hygiene as an important way in which to help prevent the spread of the virus, especially on public transport. As the industry works to reassure passengers that it is safe to travel by bus, coach or rail it's important for operators to remember that cleaning and disinfection are not the same:
• Cleaning is the process of removing dust, dirt and staining from the surface of a fabric or vinyl to maintain the material’s appearance and prolong its life
• Disinfection is intended to kill germs – microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi – which can cause infection and spread disease
Some methods, such as using soap and water, bleach or steam – are effective at both cleaning and disinfecting, but certain methods can only be carried out on specific fiber/material types.