Dwell Time
Definition
Dwell time (also called contact time) is the length of time a disinfectant must remain wet on a surface to achieve its claimed antimicrobial effect. Wiping a product on and immediately off usually does not meet the required dwell time.
Why it matters
Many people use disinfectant products as if they were ordinary cleaners. Without adequate contact time, the antimicrobial claim is not realized. Always check the product label for the required dwell time and apply accordingly when true disinfection is the goal. Routine cleaning and disinfection are different objectives.