Does UV Light Kill Viruses and Germs?
Many praise ultraviolet light for its ability to eradicate harmful microbes, with some even suggesting that it’s better than soap. But does UV light kill viruses and germs? Find out below!
Types of Ultraviolet Light
But before you start delving for answers, you should know that there are three kinds of UV light. Each of these is classified based on their wavelengths and absorption levels. Take a quick look at them below:
- Ultraviolet A (UVA) comes with a wavelength of 315 to 399 nanometers. It is not absorbed by the ozone layer.
- Ultraviolet B (UVB) comes with a wavelength of 280 to 314 nanometers. And while most of it is absorbed by the ozone layer, some of it manages to get through.
- Ultraviolet C (UVC) has a wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers. It doesn’t pass through the ozone layer and the earth’s atmosphere.
Among these three, UVC is the one mostly harnessed as a germicidal. So let’s take a closer look at it.
How UVC Light Kills Microbes
UVC’s energy levels make it more than capable of holding its own against bacteria, germs, and viruses. Due to its wavelengths, it can quickly destroy the bonds holding any microbes’ RNA and DNA, leaving them damaged beyond repair. What’s more, microbes cannot develop immunity against UV light. By investing in a good UV sanitizer, you’ll effectively make your home a cleaner and safer place.
Take note, though, that UVC light is like a double-edged sword. It can help you defeat germs and viruses, yes, but it can also lead to harm. That’s why you need to stick with authentic and approved UV devices.
Types of UV Sanitizers
That being said, great UVC light sanitizers come in different types, shapes, and sizes. The most common types of UV light devices you’ll encounter in the market today include the following:
- Handheld Wands
Handheld wands allow you to scan small accessories and surfaces. You can take them wherever you go (most great products can fit snugly in your bags), allowing you to keep yourself germ-free while traveling.
- Phone Sanitizers
Meanwhile, phone sanitizers allow you to disinfect your smartphones, one of the most vulnerable possessions you have when it comes to harmful microbes. Place your gadget inside this sanitizer, and it will get disinfected within seconds.
- Room Sanitizers
On the other hand, room sanitizers help you constantly sterilize any room in your house. Just set it up in selected locations in your home, switch it on, and let it work its magic.
- Toothbrush Holders
Lastly, UV toothbrush holders help you disinfect your toothbrushes — another possession you have that’s susceptible to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
While many brands offer these types of UV sanitizers, the best ones come with medical-grade UVC bulbs, USB hubs (for recharging), and user-friendly designs. You’d better look for those traits as you browse products.
Conclusion
So does UV light kill viruses and germs? Yes, it does! However, to safely harness its disinfecting power, you need to use the best UV sanitizers available. So best go for the products listed by Consumer UV Guide.
