Why does disinfection strategy differ between nonporous and porous surfaces?

• A. Nonporous surfaces are harder to disinfect than porous surfaces
• B. Porous surfaces do not harbor pathogens
• C. Nonporous surfaces are smooth and easier to disinfect; porous surfaces absorb liquids and may harbor pathogens, requiring different cleaning methods
• D. Any surface type disinfects equally with the same method

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that the texture of a surface determines how well a disinfectant can reach and kill microbes. Nonporous surfaces are smooth and sealed, so pathogens stay on the surface and the disinfectant can contact and kill them effectively with proper wiping and the recommended dwell time. Porous surfaces have fibers and tiny crevices that can soak up liquids, allowing microbes to hide inside pores and become shielded from the disinfectant. Because of that, cleaning must address soil and biofilm within those pores and may require different products, longer contact times, or barrier methods (like disposable covers) rather than relying on a single surface-wipe approach. This is why disinfection strategies differ for nonporous versus porous materials.