Should Green Cleaning Products be Used to Disinfect?

Green cleaning products are gaining popularity across Chicago and the North Shore for their eco-conscious ingredients and reduced health risks. But do these products actually disinfect surfaces? And are they reliable in the face of serious threats like COVID-19, influenza, or norovirus?

In this updated guide, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons explores the truth about natural disinfectants, what the EPA says about green cleaning, and when it's best to call in professionals for disinfecting services in Chicagoland homes and businesses.

What’s the Difference Between Cleaning and Disinfecting?

A common misconception is that all cleaning products also disinfect. But “cleaning” and “disinfecting” are not the same:

• Cleaning removes dirt, debris, and some germs from surfaces.
• Disinfecting kills or inactivates harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Many plant-based or green cleaners are excellent at cleaning, but they don’t meet the EPA standards for disinfection unless specifically tested and registered.

EPA Registration: The Key to Safe & Effective Disinfection

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates disinfectants in the United States. For a product to claim disinfectant properties, it must:

• Undergo rigorous laboratory testing
• Prove efficacy against specific pathogens
• Be assigned an EPA registration number

If a product doesn't carry this registration, it's not approved as a disinfectant—even if it's labeled “natural,” “green,” or “antibacterial.”

You can verify disinfectant products through the EPA’s List N database.

Why Most Green Products Fall Short

The EPA’s List N includes disinfectants proven to kill COVID-19 and other pathogens. However, very few green products appear on this list because most natural ingredients—like essential oils or vinegar—aren’t strong enough to eliminate viruses and bacteria on contact.

Even citric acid, a naturally occurring compound found in citrus fruits, is generally considered a cleaner or microbial inhibitor—not a disinfectant.

So what’s the exception?

Benefect®: The Rare Green Disinfectant That Works

Benefect® Decon 30 is a botanical disinfectant that breaks the mold. Made from thymol, a component of thyme oil, it’s:

• EPA-registered (List N)
• Proven to kill 99.99% of bacteria and viruses
• Safe for humans, pets, and the environment

Because of its effectiveness and non-toxic profile, Benefect is used by some restoration professionals—when it’s available. Due to its popularity and production limitations, it can be difficult and expensive to source during public health emergencies.

Safer Cleaning Doesn’t Always Mean Safer Disinfection

If you can’t access Benefect or similar EPA-approved botanicals, your next-best option is selecting from the EPA Safer Choice Program. These products:

• Are low in toxicity
• Are environmentally friendly
• Are suitable for routine cleaning

But remember: Safer Choice products are not registered disinfectants. They’re great for daily maintenance but won’t protect your space against viral or bacterial outbreaks.

For Serious Disinfection—Trust the Experts

When your goal is to eliminate viruses like COVID-19, norovirus, or MRSA, a professional-grade disinfectant is non-negotiable.

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we use:

• EPA List N-registered NISUS DSV™ Disinfectant, Sanitizer & Virucide (EPA #10324-80-64405)
• CDC-approved protocols
• Specialized commercial disinfection services and residential disinfecting solutions
  → See our Specialty Cleaning Services

We serve homeowners, property managers, and commercial facilities across Chicago, Evanston, Wilmette, Skokie, and beyond.

When to Use Green Cleaners vs. Disinfectants

Situation Use Green Cleaner? Use Disinfectant?

Everyday dust & grime ✅ Yes ❌ No

Food surfaces ✅ Yes (plant-based) ✅ Yes food-safe EPA

Bathrooms ✅ Optional ✅ Yes

Post-illness cleaning ❌ Not effective ✅ Required

Viral exposure ❌ Not effective ✅ Required

FAQs About Green Cleaning & Disinfection

Are green cleaning products safe for pets and children?

Yes, most plant-based cleaners are formulated to reduce chemical exposure. However, they are not replacements for disinfectants in high-risk scenarios.

Is vinegar a disinfectant?

No. Despite its natural antibacterial properties, vinegar is not EPA-approved for disinfecting viruses or serious bacteria.

Can I make my own disinfectant with essential oils?

Homemade solutions are not EPA-tested and should not be relied on to kill pathogens.

Contact Us Today for Professional Disinfecting Services in Chicago

Whether you’re managing a residential building, daycare, school, or medical facility, disinfection is serious business. Let us help you maintain a safe, healthy environment.

👉 Contact ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons to schedule your disinfection service.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

Founded over 40 years ago, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is proud to be part of the nation’s oldest restoration brand, established in Chicago in 1929. ServiceMaster Restore has served American communities for more than 80 years, delivering disaster restoration with unmatched speed and expertise.

Locally, we are a family-owned, MBE/WBE-certified firm serving Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest, and the entire North Shore. Our team includes IICRC-certified experts, including Master Fire & Water Restorers, who specialize in:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire & Smoke Damage Cleanup
• Mold Remediation
• Specialty Cleaning Services

We were honored with the 2020 BBB Torch Award and Skokie’s Business of the Year – Honorable Mention, and our work reflects our reputation for excellence.

Need immediate service? Call us at (773) 376-1110.

Proudly Serving

We provide service throughout Chicagoland, including:

• Chicago neighborhoods: Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Bucktown, Gold Coast, Rogers Park, and more
• North Shore towns: Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, Glenview, Skokie
• Western suburbs: Oak Park, River Forest, Elmwood Park, and surrounding areas