Cleaning refers to the removal of germs and dirt from surfaces. Cleaning will not kill germs; it simply removes them or reduces the number of germs in order to lower the risk of infection.
Disinfecting is a process that uses chemicals to kill germs. In order to eliminate COVID-19 and reduce the risk of spreading the virus, the CDC recommends that hard surfaces be cleaned AND disinfected frequently using household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants.
Areas that should be frequently cleaned and disinfected are those commonly touched such as tables, hard-back chairs, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, and kitchen counters.