Alcohol wipes:
Impact on enveloped viruses: Alcohol is able to denature the viral envelope and therefore it can inactivate enveloped viruses including the influenza virus and novel acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), herpes viruses and others.
Effect on limited range of bacteria: Alcohol can cause damage to the bacterial cell membrane immediately, and so can work quickly; resistant bacterial species, like Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, exist, but can still be affected by alcohol.
Limitations: Alcohol wipes are very minimally affective to non-enveloped viruses (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus, hepatitis A virus). Non-enveloped viruses will require chlorine disinfectant (sodium hypochlorite) in order to kill these viruses.
Quaternary ammonium salt wipes (e.g., benzalkonium chloride):
Primarily antibacterial: Quaternary ammonium salts will act against bacteria and some viruses, but the action can be slower and against some viruses (e.g., the new coronavirus), not as effective as alcohol.
Suitable for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces: Quaternary ammonium salts are sometimes used to wipe items, but contact time has to be maintained as well as required as indicated on package.
Chlorine-based wipes (e.g., sodium hypochlorite):
generic wide spectrum bactericidal (effective against most viruses (including non-enveloped viruses), bacteria, and fungi), can be irritating or hazardous, and malodor during or after use, can corrode metal
2. Correct use method
Wipe time: Keep the surface moist for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute (refer to the product instructions for details). Alcohol evaporation too quickly may reduce the effect.
Pre-cleaning treatment: If there is obvious dirt on the surface, it must be physically cleaned first (such as removing dust with a wet cloth), otherwise organic matter may reduce the disinfection effect.
Hand disinfection: Alcohol wipes can temporarily replace hand washing, but it is still recommended to wash with soapy water when there are stains on the hands.
3. Actual effect difference
For bacteria: Most wipes can effectively reduce common pathogens, but cannot completely sterilize (requires professional means such as high temperature and high pressure).
For viruses: Alcohol wipes are effective against enveloped viruses, but chlorine-containing products must be selected for non-enveloped viruses.
Drug-resistant strains: Some drug-resistant bacteria (such as MRSA) may be sensitive to low concentrations of alcohol, but the alcohol concentration must be up to standard.
4. Precautions
Skin irritation: Frequent use of alcohol wipes may cause dry skin. It is recommended to use hand cream after hand disinfection.
Flammability: Alcohol wipes should be kept away from fire and stored in a cool place.
Shelf life: Use up as soon as possible after opening to avoid alcohol evaporation and ineffectiveness.
Children and pets: Avoid accidental ingestion and properly discard after use.