What is required for disinfecting a surface?

The requirement for disinfecting a surface involves using a solution that effectively kills pathogens and bacteria. A solution of bleach and water is widely recognized as a powerful and effective disinfectant due to its active ingredient, sodium hypochlorite. When appropriately diluted, this solution can eliminate viruses, bacteria, and fungi on surfaces, making it suitable for disinfecting areas that may be contaminated.

Other options do not serve the primary purpose of disinfection effectively. Hand sanitizer may reduce germs on hands but is not suitable for cleaning surfaces. Hot water alone lacks the necessary properties to kill germs effectively without the aid of a disinfectant. A solution of soap and water can clean surfaces by removing dirt and grease, but it does not have the same level of efficacy as a bleach solution in killing pathogens. Thus, a bleach and water solution is critical for proper surface disinfection.