Disinfection (Desinfektion)

Clean first, then disinfect

The order matters and is often got wrong. Disinfectants only work on clean surfaces. Where layers of dirt, grease or organic material remain, the agent is bound up by them and never reaches the pathogens.

So the rule is: clear completely first, then clean thoroughly, then disinfect. Anyone who disinfects straight away creates a feeling of safety without the effect.

Respect the contact time

Every disinfectant has a prescribed contact time — usually between five and fifteen minutes. If the surface is wiped dry before that, the effect does not happen. This is the single most common application error there is.

Equally important is the right agent for the right pathogen. Not every product works equally against viruses, fungi and bacteria; mold requires a fungicidal preparation.

Where disinfection is required

After neglected apartments from grade 2 upwards: all surfaces, in particular the kitchen, the sanitary area and every surface that has been in contact with organic material. After a death in the home: the affected area and every surface that has been in contact with bodily fluids. Where there has been a vermin infestation: after pest control, because droppings and molt residues contain allergens.

What this means for the handover

For the formal handover of the apartment (Wohnungsabgabe), the property management inspects for cleanliness, not for microbiology. Disinfection is therefore not a substitute for the final cleaning (Endreinigung) — it comes on top of it. In practice the sequence is: clearance, disinfection, then the final cleaning with a handover guarantee (Abgabegarantie), meaning the cleaning company reworks free of charge if the property management objects at the handover.