“Removal of visible soil (e.g., organic and inorganic material) from objects and surfaces and normally is accomplished manually or mechanically using water with detergents or enzymatic products. Thorough cleaning is essential before high-level disinfection and sterilization because inorganic and organic materials that remain on the surfaces of instruments interfere with the effectiveness of these processes.” (CDC Guidelines 2008)
TLDR; Doesn’t kill any pathogens specifically, only removes debris.
“Sanitizing kills bacteria on surfaces using chemicals. It is not intended to kill viruses.” (EPA)
TLDR; Kills bacteria, not viruses or bacterial spores.
“Eliminates many or all pathogenic microorganisms, except bacterial spores, on inanimate objects.” “Unlike sterilization, disinfection is not sporicidal.” (CDC Guidelines 2008) When we disinfect human beings this is referred to as “antiseptic”.
TLDR; Kills bacteria and viruses, not bacterial spores.
“Destroys or eliminates all forms of microbial life.” (CDC Guidelines 2008)
TLDR; Kills bacteria, viruses, and bacterial spores.
One of the most important hygienic measures we can practice not only for sharps play, but in our every day lives is proper handwashing.