Can disinfectant run off?

“Didn’t we still have disinfectant?” For a long time, disinfection was associated with visits to the doctor for most people, because after all, the smell of disinfectant wafts through the rooms in doctors’ offices. But in our own everyday lives, disinfection was almost non-existent. Sure, you can use a penetrating cleaning agent for room care, but most people would never have thought of carrying a disinfectant with them at all times before the corona crisis. That’s why we’ve put together an overview for you, in which you can find out whether disinfectant can run off – and how the effect changes over time…

What is the shelf life of disinfectant?

In fact, many disinfectant labels have an expiration date on them. However, regardless of this date, it is recommended not to use the contents of a bottle for more than one year after opening. Especially in a professional context – i.e. in clinics, retirement homes, catering businesses – it is advisable to note the opening date on the bottle in order to know exactly whether the disinfectant can still be used without hesitation. In private, you can try to estimate how long the bottle has been open. You use disinfectant rather rarely and the bottle is still from the stone age? Then better away with it.

By the way, don’t leave your disinfectant out in the open. In fact, in many disinfectants, alcohol is the important active ingredient against pathogens and germs, and if the bottle is left open for a long time, the alcohol may evaporate and the effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. With a disinfectant dispenser, you can check that the disinfectant is sealed airtight as long as the pump is not actuated.

Can disinfectant run off?

Yes, disinfectant can run off. However, if you’re looking for an emphatic effect against viruses such as the novel coronavirus, you should buy a new product after the expiration date, as the efficacy may be greatly reduced and safety will be correspondingly low. Alcohol may have evaporated over time, weakening the denaturing effect against viruses, bacteria or fungi. You do not need to fear damage, but do not expect protection either.

Shelf life of alcohol-based disinfectants

The effectiveness of alcohol-based disinfectants has been proven to be high, but this advantage is quickly lost if the disinfectant is stored improperly. The effectiveness lasts longer if the canister or bottle can be sealed airtight, allowing the alcohol content to remain high. Then, when applied, the product can attack and destroy the genetic material of bacteria, viruses or other microorganisms, thereby stopping their further spread.

Proper storage of hand sanitizer

If you have a supply of disinfectant, you’ll have extra if you follow these storage tips:

Seal airtight

Always keep the container closed to prevent the alcohol content from decreasing.

Far from heat and flames

Due to the high alcohol content, disinfectants are highly flammable and should therefore be stored away from heat and flames. Preferably in a cool place like the garage or basement.

Clearly marked

If there is confusion when it comes to disinfectants, the consequences can be nasty. Therefore, even home-made disinfectant should be clearly labeled. Ingredients, date of manufacture and date of opening must be indicated on the label.

Best before date exceeded – what to do?

If the disinfectant has expired, you should definitely replace the product. When buying a new disinfectant, look for its effectiveness against viruses if you want to use it to protect yourself against infection with the new type of coronavirus. Disinfectants must not be discharged into the wastewater system. It is best to dispose of the expired preparation at the local recycling center.

Expired disinfectant – less effective!

The only risk associated with expired disinfectant is less efficacy. But it is precisely in corona times that perfect efficacy against enveloped viruses is important – the novel coronavirus is an enveloped virus and can be controlled with the aid of limited virucidal or limited virucidal plus disinfectant. So if you want to protect yourself and others, don’t go for the expired disinfectant.

Ideally protected with new disinfectant

You are looking for an effective disinfectant for your everyday life. We have used everything to create the perfect product for you. In our online store you will find the result: a limited virucidal disinfectant with high ethanol content, soothing tea tree oil, an exclusive care ingredient and a fruity scent. You want to know more? Visit our website, ask your questions – and order our high-quality disinfectant gel.