Disinfectant evaluation criteria include: 

Ease of Use

• The simpler a disinfectant is to use, the more likely it will be used efficiently and effectively. Ask is this product ready to use out of the package or does it require some form of preparation? Is it a one-step disinfecting process? Does the product come in an easy to use format?

Kill Claims

• Does the product label acknowledge that it kills the pathogens that are of concern within your facility?

Time Required

There are two time elements you should be aware of with any disinfectant, kill time and contact time.

• Kill Time is the length of time required for the disinfectant to kill a group of pathogens. 
• Contact Time is the duration of time required for the disinfectant to kill all the pathogens listed on its label.

Product Safety

Knowing if the disinfectant is safe to use on most surfaces and that it has acceptable toxicity and flammability ratings is important for the safety of your staff, visitors, and facility. Also knowing what type of  personal protection equipment, if any is required when using is important to prevent any accidents.

Sterilization products evaluation criteria include:

Barrier effectiveness                           

• Stops microbial penetration, stops penetration of liquids and maintains the sterility of the contents.                                                                                   

Penetrability                                             

• Permits sterilizing gases, steam or plasmas to enter

Aeration                                                      

• Permits aeration post-sterilization (i.e., permits ethylene oxide to disperse)

Drapeability                                             

• Adapts to equipment pack curves smoothly and tightly

Sizing                                                             

• Offers sizes to house items of any size and shape 

Puncture resistance                             

• Opposes punctures by sharp instruments or other tools 

Tear strength                                            

• Does not tear

Transparency                                            

• Permits confirmation of the items inside before breaking the seal

Important: Sterilization pouches, wrap and reels are intended for single use only and should be inspected prior to use