Does cleaning really help?

Another question and answer:

Q. Does environmental cleaning and disinfection really work in preventing the spread of harmful microorganisms?

A. Yes. But how well is works depends on many things, including the nature of the object, the type, number, and location of microorganisms, how well the organisms resist the physical processes or disinfectants, the presence of organic and inorganic matter, the concentration and potency of disinfectant, other physical and chemical properties (i.e., temperature, pH), and the duration of exposure and the contact time. Remember that environmental cleaning and disinfection is just one of several steps needed to prevent the spread of germs.