Disinfectants, Degreasers, and Aerosol Cleaners: What’s the Difference for Home Use?

Disinfectants: Your Germ-Fighting Go-To

Disinfectants are designed to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces—making them essential for maintaining a healthy home. 

Types of Disinfectants: 
- Alcohol-based: Great for quick kills on germs—ideal for countertops and electronics. 
- Quaternary ammonium (quats): Longer-lasting protection for areas that get touched often, like door handles and light switches. 

Best Uses at Home: 
- Kitchen counters 
- Bathroom surfaces 
- Doorknobs, remotes, and phones 

Safety Tip: Let disinfectants sit wet on the surface for a few minutes (check the label) before wiping off. 

Try: Disinfectants

Try: Soaps & Sanitizers

Degreasers: The Secret to Cutting Through Kitchen Grime

Greasy mess in the oven? Degreasers are specially formulated to dissolve tough oil and sticky residues, making them perfect for kitchen and garage cleanup. 

Types of Degreasers: 
- Solvent-based: Powerful and fast-drying—great for ovens, tools, and greasy stovetops. 
- Water-based: Gentler and safer for regular use around the house. 

Best Uses at Home: 
- Kitchen appliances (oven doors, stovetops, exhaust fans) 
- Garage floors or tools 
- Barbecue grills 

Safety Tip: Always ventilate the area and test on a small spot first, especially with solvent-based products. 

Try: Multi-Purpose Cleaners & Degreasers 

Try: Cleaning Solvents

 

Aerosols: Convenient, Targeted Cleaning 

Aerosols aren’t a type of cleaner—they’re a spray format. Many household cleaners come in aerosol cans to help you reach tight spots or apply an even layer. 

Common Aerosol Products: 
- Glass cleaner sprays 
- Disinfectant sprays for quick coverage 
- Contact cleaners for electronics 

Best Uses at Home: 
- Behind appliances 
- Inside car vents 
- On light switches or handles 

Safety Tip: Store aerosols in cool, dry places and avoid spraying near open flames. 

Try: 3M Spray Trim Adhesives

Try: Contact Cleaners

Quick Comparison of What’s Inside

Cleaner Type What's Inside What It Does
Disinfectants    Alcohol, quats, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine   Destroys germs and bacteria
Degreasers Solvents, surfactants, emulsifiers Lifts grease and grime 
Aerosols  Propellants + any cleaner formula Spray delivery for easy application 

 

Choosing the Right Cleaner at Home 

Task Cleaner to Use
Bathroom Sanitizing Disinfectant
Greasy Oven Cleanup Degreaser
Cleaning Light Switches Fast Disinfectant spray
Polishing Windows Aerosol glass cleaner
Electronics Maintenance Contact cleaner aerosol 

 

Safety Tips for Home Use 

  • Always read the label before using any cleaning product.
  • Use gloves if you have sensitive skin or are using strong degreasers.
  • Ventilate your space when spraying chemicals.
  • Keep cleaning supplies out of reach of children and pets. 

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between disinfectants, degreasers, and aerosols can make home cleaning easier and more effective. Each has its place—from keeping your family healthy to getting rid of that stubborn kitchen grime. The key is knowing which product to reach for and using it safely and correctly. 

OneSource Supply Co. offers a wide selection of cleaners suitable for home use. Whether you’re looking for powerful disinfectants or reliable degreasers, visit https://onesourcesupplyco.com to explore trusted cleaning solutions shipped right to your door.