GK-GermKiller

What’s Really on Your Pet’s Paws After Going Outside?

Swee Cheng — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 08:27:57 +0000

Every walk is an adventure for your dog — sniffing lampposts, trotting through the grass, exploring the void deck, maybe even sneaking a paw into a puddle or two. Cats, meanwhile, don’t need a leash to get into things — a windowsill ledge, the corridor outside, or a few minutes in the garden is all it takes. And then there’s the litter box, which every indoor cat’s paws visit multiple times a day.

Whether your pet is an outdoor explorer or a strictly-indoor companion, their paws are quietly picking up a lot more than just dirt. In fact, paws might be one of the germiest parts of your pet’s entire body. Here’s what’s really going on down there — and why it matters more than most pet owners realise.

Paws: The Ultimate Germ Magnet

Think about everywhere your dog’s paws touch in a single walk: pavements, grass, drains, other animals’ waste, puddles of unknown origin, void decks, park benches, and the occasional discarded food wrapper. Unlike your shoes, paws have no barrier between them and the ground — just skin, fur, and soft, absorbent paw pads with deep grooves between the toes that are perfect for trapping debris.

Veterinarians frequently observe that pets pick up a wide variety of contaminants on their paws during daily outdoor activities—from dirt and urban grime to hidden bacteria that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

Bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) — which can be present in contaminated soil, waste, or water.
Fungal spores, including ringworm, which thrives in damp outdoor environments and is highly contagious to humans too.
Parasite eggs and larvae, like hookworm or roundworm eggs, which can survive in soil for weeks.
Chemical residues, including pesticides, herbicides, and de-icing salts used on public grounds.
Everyday grime — oil, exhaust residue, and general urban dirt that builds up in high-traffic areas.

None of this is visible to the naked eye. Your pet’s paws can look perfectly clean while still carrying a significant microbial load.

Don’t Forget the Litter Box

If you’re a cat owner thinking “my cat doesn’t even go outside, so this doesn’t apply to me” — think again. The litter box is one of the most concentrated germ sources your cat’s paws encounter, often multiple times a day.

Every time your cat digs, buries, and steps out of the box, their paws pick up:

Bacteria from faeces and urine, including E. coli and other coliform bacteria,
Ammonia and other residues produced as urine breaks down, which builds up as urine breaks down and can irritate sensitive paw pads,
Litter dust and particles, which cling to fur between the toes and get tracked across the house,
Mould or bacteria from damp, unchanged litter, particularly in humid environments or boxes that aren’t cleaned frequently enough.

And just like outdoor paws, litter box paws don’t stay contained. Cats jump onto counters, beds, sofas, and dining tables — carrying whatever they picked up in the box straight onto surfaces your family touches every day. It’s one of the more overlooked hygiene gaps in cat care, precisely because it feels like a purely “indoor” issue.

Why This Matters More Than You Think

Here’s the part most pet owners don’t consider: your pet doesn’t just walk (or dig) on their paws — they lick them. A lot. Grooming is instinctive for both dogs and cats, and it means anything picked up outside — or in the litter box — has a direct route into your pet’s mouth and digestive system. This can lead to stomach upset, skin irritation between the toes, or in some cases, more serious infections.

And it doesn’t stop with your pet. Paws touch your sofa, your bed, your floors, your kitchen counters, and your hands the moment they settle in. Whatever came home from the walk — or out of the litter box — essentially gets a free pass into your living space, which is a real concern for households with young children, elderly family members, or anyone with a compromised immune system.

The Paw Pad Problem

Paw pads aren’t like flat skin — they’re thick, cushioned, and covered in tiny ridges and deep creases, especially between the toes. This texture is great for grip and shock absorption, but it also creates the perfect hiding spots for moisture, dirt, and microorganisms to get trapped and multiply. Warm, damp, and dark: it’s essentially a five-star hotel for bacteria and fungus.

This is also why paw-related skin issues — like interdigital dermatitis or “yeasty paw” smell — are so common, especially in humid climates.

So, What Can You Actually Do?

The good news is that you don’t need to give your pet a full bath after every single walk or litter box trip (your pet will thank you for that). A few simple habits go a long way:

Wipe or sanitise paws after every outdoor outing, especially after rain or visits to grassy or high-traffic areas,
Give your cat’s paws a quick clean after litter box use, particularly if they have longer fur between the toes that traps litter and residue,
Check between the toes regularly for trapped debris, redness, or irritation,
Dry paws thoroughly, particularly between the pads, to reduce the risk of fungal growth,
Sanitise, don’t just wipe — plain water and a cloth can remove visible dirt, but it won’t necessarily eliminate the germs living on the surface of the paw.

That last point is key. Wiping removes what you can see. Sanitising deals with what you can’t.

A Simple Step for a Cleaner, Healthier Home

This is exactly why GK Paw Sanitiser™ was created — a quick, no-fuss way to eliminate germs on any pet’s paws, anytime, anywhere, whether your dog just got back from a walk or your cat just hopped out of the litter box.

Formulated to be alcohol-free, non-toxic, and non-irritating, GK Paw Sanitiser is gentle enough for sensitive paw pads — dog or cat — while still tackling the germs picked up outdoors or in the litter box. It’s designed to fit naturally into your routine:

Spray on your pet’s paws (or body) after they’ve been exposed to germs outside,
A quick spritz around the genital area after nature calls helps keep things fresh and clean too,
Hold the spray about 10cm from the paw and gently press to release a fine, even mist,
Make sure you cover the whole paw, including between the toes and the pads, where germs tend to hide,
With clean hands, gently massage the sanitiser in — this helps it spread evenly and absorb properly.

Whether you’re coming back from a walk in the park, a trip to the vet, a play session at the dog run, or your cat’s latest litter box visit, a quick spray of GK Paw Sanitiser helps keep the germs where they belong — off your sofa, off your bed, and out of your pet’s mouth during their next grooming session.

Clean paws start with one simple step. Explore GK Paw Sanitiser™ and the rest of the GK GermKiller range at gk-germkiller.com and make post-walk (and post-litter box) paw care a simple, effortless part of your pet care routine.

The post What’s Really on Your Pet’s Paws After Going Outside? appeared first on GK-GermKiller.

What’s That Smell? Common Causes of Unpleasant Odours at Home

Swee Cheng — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 03:14:05 +0000

You’ve smelled it before you can even name it. You walk through the front door and something’s… off. A faint mustiness. A whiff of the bin. That unmistakable “damp towel” smell drifting from the bathroom. You spray a bit of air freshener, it fades for a few minutes, and then — somehow — it’s back.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not imagining things, and you’re definitely not alone. Most homes have at least one persistent odour hiding somewhere, and more often than not, it’s not really about the smell itself — it’s about what’s causing it.

Odour Is a Symptom, Not the Problem

Here’s something most of us don’t think about: smell doesn’t come from nowhere. Unpleasant odours are almost always a sign that bacteria, mould, or organic matter is breaking down somewhere nearby. The smell is simply the byproduct.

That’s why spraying a floral air freshener over a bad smell often feels like it “doesn’t quite work” — because it isn’t dealing with the actual bacteria producing the odour. It’s just adding a second, competing smell on top of the first one. A few minutes later, the bacteria are still there, still multiplying, and the odour comes right back.

To actually get rid of a smell, you need to address what’s making it — not just cover it up.

The Usual Suspects Around the House

1. The Air Conditioner

That slightly musty, “wet dog” smell when you switch on the air-con? It’s extremely common, especially in humid climates. Air-con units are cool, damp, and dark inside — basically a perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria, which build up on the coils and filters over time and get blown straight into the room every time the unit runs.

2. Rubbish Bins and Rubbish Chutes

Food waste breaks down fast, especially in warm weather, and the bacteria responsible for that breakdown are exactly what produces the sour, rotten smell we associate with bins. Rubbish chutes in apartment buildings are often worse, since they’re shared, poorly ventilated, and rarely cleaned.

3. Bathrooms

Damp towels, shower drains, toilet bowls, and bath mats all hold onto moisture — and moisture plus organic residue is a recipe for bacterial growth. Shared bathrooms can also develop that lingering ‘public toilet’ smell, particularly when moisture and organic residues accumulate in less visible areas.

4. Shoes and Shoe Cabinets

Feet sweat. A lot. Combine that with an enclosed shoe cabinet with little airflow, and you’ve got the ideal conditions for odour-causing bacteria to thrive — which is why some shoes seem to “smell no matter what.”

5. Cigarette Smoke

Cigarette odour doesn’t just float away — it clings to soft furnishings, curtains, and even walls, and can linger for hours or days after the last cigarette was smoked.

6. Car Interiors

Warm, enclosed, and often carrying a mix of food crumbs, sweat, and humidity — cars are notorious for developing odours that regular vacuuming doesn’t fully solve.

When It Hits Closer to Home: Kids and Pets

If you have young children or pets at home, chances are you’re even more familiar with unexpected odours — and it’s not because your home is any less clean. It’s simply that kids and pets create more of the conditions that lead to odour in the first place.

For parents, bedwetting accidents are common, and once urine soaks into a mattress or fabric, the smell can be surprisingly stubborn to shift — because the bacteria causing the odour are now embedded in the material itself, not just sitting on the surface.

For pet owners, the list is even longer: a litter box that needs freshening between cleans, a “doggy” smell that seems to return no matter how often you bathe your dog, or that unmistakable scent hanging around a pet bed or crate. None of this means you’re not keeping a clean home — it just means pets (wonderful as they are) come with their own set of odour-producing bacteria.

In both cases, the instinct is often to reach for a stronger-smelling spray. But as we covered earlier, fragrance alone doesn’t solve the underlying issue — it just adds another layer on top of it.

Tackling Odour at the Source

Since many household odours are caused by bacteria, mould, organic residues, or other volatile compounds, the most effective way to deal with it is to target that source directly, rather than masking it.

A few habits help:

Improve airflow wherever moisture tends to build up — bathrooms, shoe cabinets, air-con units,
Clean regularly, but also disinfect, since visible cleanliness doesn’t always mean the bacteria are gone,
Address spills and accidents quickly, before odour-causing bacteria have time to settle into fabric or upholstery,
Use a product that eliminates the bacteria, not just one that adds fragrance on top of it.

That last point makes the biggest difference — and it’s exactly the gap most air fresheners don’t close.

Fresh Air, Without the Guesswork

This is where GK Air™ comes in. Unlike a typical air freshener, GK Air is a water-based air disinfectant that improves air quality by destroying odour-causing bacteria at the source, instead of simply masking the smell with fragrance.

It’s formulated to be non-toxic, non-flammable, surfactant-free, and formulated for daily indoor use around the whole family, including humans and pets. It even carries a light, refreshing green tea fragrance, so your space smells clean because the air actually is cleaner.

GK Air fits naturally into all the odour hotspots covered above:

Spray it into the air-con unit before switching it on, for genuinely fresh air instead of that musty first blast,
Use it to eliminate cigarette odour clinging to soft furnishings and shared spaces,
Freshen up shared bathrooms, tackling the bacteria behind that lingering smell,
Keep rubbish bins and chutes under control between cleans,
Freshen the air after bedwetting accidents — while you clean and disinfect the mattress itself (GK Surface™ is built for that), a few sprays of GK Air around the room clears the lingering odour in the air rather than just the surface,
Freshen litter boxes, pet beds, and crates to keep pet odours from building up between cleans,
Spritz shoe cabinets and car interiors for a fresher space day to day.

Real GK Air users already reach for it in exactly these situations — from freshening dustbins, shoes, and car carpets, to clearing the air after everyday household accidents.

The next time something smells “off,” don’t just mask it — eliminate it. Explore GK Air™ and the rest of the GK GermKiller range today.

The post What’s That Smell? Common Causes of Unpleasant Odours at Home appeared first on GK-GermKiller.

The Skies Just Got Safer: Introducing GK Aviation™

jean ong — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:33:06 +0000

As passenger expectations rise, so do our standards. GK-GermKiller® is proud to announce the launch of GK Aviation™— a specialised division tailored dedicated to aircraft hygiene.

A New Identity for a Specialised Standard

To represent this evolution, we are introducing a new GK Aviation™ logo. This mark signifies more than just a name change; it represents a certified promise that our products are engineered to meet the rigorous safety, material, and efficacy standards of the aviation world.

Every product under this banner has been tested and certified to meet the stringent material compatibility and safety requirements of major aircraft manufacturers, including Airbus and Boeing.

Engineered for the Cabin Environment

Aircraft cabins present unique challenges: confined spaces, high passenger turnover, and sensitive plumbing. The GK Aviation™ range addresses these with precision:

GK Air™ Inflight Disinfectant: Instantly neutralises odours, disinfects and freshens air in one spray. It improves cabin air quality while ensuring a fresh, inviting environment for passengers.
GK Concentrate™ Disinfectant Cleaner: A versatile, hospital-grade disinfectant offering deep cleaning power with a cost-effective 1:40 dilution rate. This allergen-reducing formulation eliminates up to 99.9999% of germs and provides ongoing protection for up to 24 hours.
GK Anti-Bacterial Hand Soap: A gentle, neutral formula designed to keep hands soft while minimising water usage for rinsing and reducing the risk of sink clogging in lavatories.

Your Brand, Your Identity

Beyond superior performance, we understand that the passenger experience is defined by your brand. GK Aviation™ offers bespoke customisation services, allowing airlines to tailor fragrance profiles and packaging to align perfectly with their unique corporate identity. We seamlessly integrate safety into your brand story.

From ensuring compliance to integrating your unique brand identity into daily consumables, we are dedicated to one mission: Elevating Safety at Every Altitude.

The post The Skies Just Got Safer: Introducing GK Aviation™ appeared first on GK-GermKiller.

Clean with confidence using GK-GermKiller® pet-friendly disinfectants!

Swee Cheng — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 06:19:49 +0000

A familiar tale for pet owners

If you have pets, this scene might prove to be all too familiar for you – envision a bright Sunday morning, where you make a leisurely breakfast in the kitchen. The tantalising smell of the muffins has your dog, Lucky, drooling from its scent. Worked up in excitement over the smell, Lucky darts up the countertop to grab the muffins, running all over the house and leaving remnants of drool. What’s more, once Lucky has had his fill, he defecates all over the house, causing the once pristine living room to resemble a crime scene.

Beyond such streaks of mischief, cleaning up after pets in general can prove difficult; from fur shedding, foul smell and maintaining overall hygiene at home. Most pet owners are unsure on what kind of cleaning solutions can help to eliminate the smell and pathogens safely and effectively.

Solutions to solve your problems!

If the above sounds like something you might have experienced, fret not! GK-GermKiller® offers the solution to your problems. GK-GermKiller® is the only made in Singapore brand that has gone through the most rigorous tests done for safety and efficacy in the market! Safe, effective and formulated with care, GK-GermKiller® is undoubtedly the best choice awaiting your selection.

GK-GermKiller® is tested safe and non-toxic in accordance with OECD Testing Guidelines of Chemicals for health effects. It is also tested to be non-irritating to the eyes and skin. As GK GermKiller® has passed such stringent checks, pet owners can be rest assured that GK-GermKiller® would have no issues pertaining to safety and efficacy. Thereon, they can clean the surrounding areas and accessories of their furbabies with assurance and confidence!

Parvovirus, Leptospirosis and Ringworm are some of the common viruses, bacteria and fungus that might linger on your pets’ accessories, the house when they move around, or any surfaces they come into contact with. This, unfortunately, might cause them to fall ill. As pet owners, it is essential to disinfect the house and your pets’ accessories to safeguard their health. GK Concentrate™ & GK Surface™ guards against a wide range of pathogens, making it a top-notch choice!

As pet owners, you might encounter unpleasant smells from your pets – attributed to drooling, pee or poo. GK-GermKiller® disinfectants help in eliminating these odours as it tackles odour-causing bacteria, instead masking the smell with fragrance. Now, you’ll never have to go another day worrying about your pets’ accessories or your house smelling foul!

Walking your dog

For owners who walk your dogs regularly, you certainly know how easily they get dirty and how much germs might remain on them.

Say goodbye to worries about harmful bacteria, when our star product GK Paw Sanitiser is available! GK Paw Sanitiser promises to eliminate up to 99.99% of germs on your furry friend’s paws, body and even their sensitive areas. The alcohol-free formulation is designed to be non-drying and non irritating, making it ideal for your furries to use comfortably. It also leaves an active antimicrobial film, protecting your furry customers while leaving it lightly scented. But here’s what makes GK Paw Sanitiser life-changing: no rinse is required after application, which means pet owners can go out and about as fuss free as possible.

Knowing that pet hygiene will be taken care of certainly eases the burden of pet owners – GK Paw Sanitiser is definitely a must-have for every outing with your furries, to make it an enjoyable one!

GK-GermKiller® disinfectants

While we’ve gone extensively into the safety of GK-GermKiller® products, we’re not neglecting their range of disinfectants that you can easily incorporate into your cleaning routine! Count on the versatile GK Concentrate™ to take care of your needs when it comes to deep cleaning pet accessories, wiping general and large surfaces, and mopping floors. Additionally, GK Surface™ offers a ready to use cleaning solution; pet owners can simply spray it on pee and poo areas and wipe it away for a quick clean to disinfect and eliminate smell. Last but not least, you can look forward to wrapping up your cleaning routine by generously spraying GK Air™ in shared living spaces with your pets. What a stellar way to eliminate germs and odour in the air so everyone can enjoy clean, fresh air!

The choice that awaits

A clean and healthy home is essential for the happiness and well-being of yourself and your pets. With GK-GermKiller® disinfectants, you can clean with confidence knowing it is safe and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed! 👀

This article was written and first published by Clubpets.

Source: Clubpets (https://www.clubpets.com.sg/clean-with-confidence-using-gk-germkiller-pet-friendly-disinfectants/)

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Five facts you might not know about the GK Super Bundle

Clarice Tan — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 08:25:17 +0000

Fact #1: GK Disinfectants are tested effective against COVID-19!

Even after a series of ever-evolving variants such as Delta and Omicron, SARS-CoV-2 (better known as the COVID-19 virus) seems to still be infecting people around us.

In line with the advisory of the US EPA¹, the US CDC², and the European CDC, genetic changes to the virus do not impact the efficacy of disinfectants. In other words, despite having mutated variations in the surface structure, the different COVID-19 variants remain powerless against GK-GermKiller’s chemical attack.

GK Air™, GK Surface™ and GK Concentrate™ have been tested against an actual SARS-Cov-2 strain identified as “Isolate USA-WA1/2020” which was isolated from an oropharyngeal swab of a COVID-19 patient in the USA. The test, adhering to internationally-accepted protocols, was implemented by a certified US laboratory in accordance with the US EPA product performance test guideline ASTM E1053³. The results show that GK-GermKiller® products exhibit excellent efficacy against Covid-19 virus.

Fact #2 GK Disinfectants have Something for Everything your home needs

Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all been made even more aware of the importance of good hygiene, disinfection and a virus-free home. The GK Superbundle features a complete set of water-based disinfectants that are formulated for their different and specific areas of use.

GK Surface™ – GK Surface™ is GK’s flagship disinfectant due to its quick kill-time and its efficacy against a wide-range of viruses, bacteria & fungi. GK Surface™ eliminates SARS-CoV-2 in just ONE minute. It leaves an active antimicrobial film on the surface for up to 30 days. GK Surface™ can be used on various surfaces including fabrics, making it suitable for disinfecting even hard-to-wash surfaces such as curtains or mattresses. It is effective even against mould and mildew which can be frequently found in homes.

Some areas of use:

High-touch surfaces such as light switches and door knobs
Mattresses, pillows, bolsters and blankets
Sofas, chairs and tables
Curtains, upholstery and more

GK Air™ – This water-based air disinfectant effectively eliminates up to 99.99999% of germs including the SARS-Cov-2 Virus. It improves air quality by destroying odour-causing bacteria instead of simply masking the bad odour with fragrance. As an air disinfectant, it was tested against inhalation and oral toxicity to ensure that it is safe for daily use around humans and pets.

Some areas of use:

Air-conditioning systems, units and coils
Areas with bad odour
Indoor air or stuffy rooms
Rubbish chutes and rubbish bins

GK Concentrate™ – GK Concentrate™ is a water-based disinfectant concentrate that effectively eliminates up to 99.99999% of germs even at a 1:80 dilution rate. Designed as a multi-purpose formula, it can be used to sanitise laundry, mop floors, soak toys and much more. GK Concentrate™ is available in both floral (for a long-lasting scent) and citronella (to ward off mosquitos and insects) fragrances. For pet owners, you can use GK Concentrate™ to mop your floors or soak pet toys worry-free, as it has been tested safe for daily use around humans and even pets.⁴

Some areas of use:

Soak children toys and pet accessories
Sanitise laundry or kill germs in laundry machines
Mop floors and large surfaces

Fact #3: GK Disinfectants are hospital-grade disinfectants

Image: When we say that GK-GermKiller® disinfectants are: hospital-grade disinfectants, we can prove it.

A Hospital-Grade disinfectant represents the highest grade of disinfection to kill the most common harmful microorganisms and is recommended for use in hygiene-sensitive environments such as hospitals, clinics, schools, childcare centres, dental offices and more. With GK-GermKiller®, hospital-grade disinfectants are made readily available for you and your loved ones!

Most consumer-grade disinfectants conduct tests & studies under ideal (lab) conditions, typically without the presence of organic soil or other contaminants commonly found in the environment (such as blood, saliva, body fluids) that can compromise the performance of a disinfectant. In order to achieve the Hospital-Grade certification, a disinfectant’s kill efficacy is tested against a list of test organisms in a real-world scenario as opposed to an idealised lab-scenario, where interfering contaminants can possibly limit its action.

In achieving Hospital-Grade certification, GK-GermKiller® Disinfectants are certified to be effective against such bacteria that may be shielded underneath any biofluid or dirt.

Fact #4: GK Disinfectants are suitable for daily use

When looking for the right disinfectant for your home and loved ones, look out for toxic, corrosive or hazardous ingredients. An effective disinfectant does not have to be harmful or dangerous. In order to ensure that GK Disinfectants are safe for daily use around humans, pets and on various environmental surfaces, the disinfectants were subjected to tests in accordance with the Testing of Chemicals for Health Effects, as per OECD guidelines.

These are but some of the certifications GK Disinfectants have⁴:

Tested as non-toxic and non-irritating for the skin, eyes and mouth.
Tested as non skin sensitisitiser
Tested safe for daily use around humans, pets and the environment
Tested as non inhalation, dermal and oral toxic

Fact #5: GK Disinfectants are safe for use around pets

GK Disinfectants are formulated for your family and loved ones, furry friends included! It can be difficult to find a suitable disinfectant that not only keeps your home germ-free, but is also not harmful when used in the presence of your pets. Over the years, GK-GermKiller has been the trusted disinfectant for pet owners.

This means that you can safely use the GK disinfectants on surfaces that your pets might come in contact with. Here are some areas of use for disinfecting your pet supplies!

GK Concentrate™ – Soak pet toys, pet accessories such as leashes, collars, food and water bowls.

GK Surfaces ™ – Wipe and disinfect pet bedding, pet toilet/tray areas and more

GK Air™ – Keep indoor pet toilets/trays smelling fresh

The GK Superbundle consists of:

GK Surface™(85ml, Wipes & 500ml)

GK Air™(300ml)

GK Concentrate™(2L) – either Citronella or Floral Fragrance

GK Hand Sanitiser™

For this month of April, if you know someone who is on home recovery from a COVID-19 infection, take 20% off when you send them a GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit. Use code: COVIDKIT exclusively on www.gk-germkiller.com.

Footnotes:

¹https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/do-disinfectants-kill-newer-strains-coronavirus
²https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant.html

³“ASTM E1053-20 Standard Practice to Assess Virucidal Activity of Chemicals Intended for Disinfection of Inanimate, Nonporous Environmental Surfaces”, ASTM International, https://www.astm.org/Standards/E1053.htm

est-guidelines

⁴GK Air™, GK Surface™ & GK Concentrate™ were tested in accordance to the Testing of Chemicals for Health Effects as per OECD Guidelines.

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How to use a GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit for Home Recovery

Clarice Tan — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 05:29:42 +0000

What should you do if you test positive on an Antigen-Rapid-Test (ART) Kit? Home recovery can be a daunting experience, especially without the right tools. In order to ensure that the patient has a smooth recovery, whilst preventing further spread of the virus amongst household members, equip yourself with a GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit. This article is a GK guide on disinfecting a home with a recovering COVID-19 patient.

If you know someone who is on home recovery from a COVID-19 infection, take 20% off when you send them a GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit. Use code: COVIDKIT exclusively on www.gk-germkiller.com.

Here’s all you need to know about disinfecting your home post COVID-19 with the GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit:

DURING A COVID-19 INFECTION

Situation A: The COVID-19 patient is able to self-disinfect & clean their room

Provide dedicated cleaning & disinfecting supplies to the patient. This includes:
- Tissues, paper towels
- A surface disinfectant / surface disinfectant wipes
- An air disinfectant for the enclosed room
- Hand sanitisers

If the patient has shared spaces with the other household members, he/she should disinfect all surfaces & items after each use with GK Surface™. The hospital-grade disinfectant is tested to effectively kill the actual COVID-19 Virus (SARS-CoV-2) in just ONE minute. Alternatively, GK Surface™ Wipes can be used to wipedown high-touch surfaces. Each wipe is also conveniently-packed in individual packaging to ensure ultimate hygiene, thus preventing further contamination and virus spread across the other members of the household.
- GK Surface Wipes™ can also be used to disinfect utensils/shared items if necessary, especially if disposable ones are not available. The patient can disinfect utensils/items before leaving it at the door for collection.

Increase ventilation by opening windows and using fans. As the patient is recovering in an enclosed room with a closed door, ensure that he/she is equipped with a can of GK Air™ Disinfectant Spray. The water-based air disinfectant is tested to effectively eliminate the COVID-19 virus and meets the hospital-grade standard. As an air disinfectant, it has also been tested against acute inhalation and oral toxicity in accordance with OECD Testing Guidelines of Chemicals for health effects.
- A bottle of GK Air™ should also be kept and used in shared bathrooms after each use.
- GK Air™ can also be used to disinfect air-conditioner systems. It can safely be used to kill germs and bacteria on the air-con fins and coils.

Situation B: The COVID-19 patient is unable to self-disinfect/clean their room

Only clean and disinfect the area around the patient if needed, in order to limit contact with the patient. Wear gloves and a mask when handling shared items or in the presence of a patient. The patient should also wear a surgical mask. Open doors and windows, use fans and air-conditioning (HVAC) settings to increase air circulation.

AFTER A COVID-19 INFECTION

Wait for at least a few hours before you clean and disinfect the recovery room. Wear a mask when you enter the room and ensure adequate ventilation.

After ensuring adequate ventilation, spray GK Air™ into the recovery room to disinfect and freshen the air in the indoor environment.

As the virus is known to survive on surfaces of different materials for up to 3 days, potentially contaminated surfaces should be thoroughly disinfected. Use a surface disinfectant that is proven effective against the COVID-19 virus with a quick kill-time like GK Surface™. Not only does it inactivate the virus in just ONE minute, GK Surface™ is a certified hospital-grade disinfectant that eliminates up to 99.99999% germs on surfaces. Use GK Surface™ to disinfect all high-touch surfaces such as switches, door knobs, devices, remote controls and more.
- GK Surface™ can be used even on fabrics such as curtains, beddings, mattresses and carpets.
- Spray GK Surface™ on all furniture and wipe down all surfaces. It can also be used to wipe the walls.

Instead of simply washing the clothes, bedsheet covers and other laundry products used by the patient with a regular detergent, add a capful of GK Concentrate™ in the softener drawer of the washing machine to thoroughly sanitise and disinfect the laundry load. GK Concentrate™ is a multi-purpose, highly-dilutable disinfectant that effectively kills bacteria and sickness-causing germs including the COVID-19 virus.
- All clothing, bed sheets, pillow covers and blankets should be washed with GK Concentrate™ after the recovery period.
- Use GK Concentrate™ to mop and disinfect the recovery room flooring to ensure that no lingering germs remain on the ground.
- GK Concentrate™ can also be used to soak reusable masks that might have been used during the recovery period. It is tested against skin sensitisation and skin irritation (in accordance with the Testing of Chemicals for Health Effects as per OECD guidelines).

The GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit consisting of all the above-mentioned certified COVID-19 disinfectants can be purchased here or on Shopee or Lazada. If you know someone who is currently recovering at home from COVID-19, take 20% off when you send them a GK COVID-19 Recovery Kit when you use the code: COVIDKIT exclusively on www.gk-germkiller.com.

Shop now: https://www.gk-germkiller.com/all-products/gk-bundle-deals/

If you know someone who is recovering from COVID-19, share this article with them.

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GK-GermKiller® Products are proven effective against New COVID-19 Variants

Clarice Tan — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 04:04:51 +0000

GK-GermKiller^® GK Air™, GK-GermKiller^® GK Surface™ and GK-GermKiller^® GK Concentrate™ have been tested against actual SARS-Cov-2 strain identified as “Isolate USA-WA1/2020” which was isolated from an oropharyngeal swab of a COVID-19 patient in the USA. To ensure the testing adhered to internationally-accepted protocols, the US EPA product performance test guideline ASTM E1053 (2) was implemented by a certified US laboratory. The GK-GermKiller^® products have shown excellent efficacy against Covid-19 virus.

These results remain valid for all mutated Covid-19 virus strains identified. This includes the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron Variant. In line with the advisory of the US EPA1, the US CDC2, and the European CDC3, genetic changes to the virus do not impact the efficacy of disinfectants.

On 26th November 2021, the World Health Organization classified omicron as a variant of concern. It was first detected in South Africa and the available information regarding this variant is rapidly changing. Omicron is not the first variant of COVID-19 virus. Viruses constantly change through mutation and new variants emerge as a result of these mutations. Some variants spread more easily and quicker than other variants, which may lead to an increase in COVID-19 cases. A variant will be considered a Variant of Concern (VOC) based on how easily the variant spreads, how severe the symptoms are, how the variant responds to treatments, and how effective vaccines protect against the variant. Below is a table to summarise the currently identified variants of concern (VOCs)4.

GK-GermKiller^®’s ability to kill COVID-19 is related to the chemical make-up of the virus as it chemically inactivates viruses. The difficulty of inactivating a virus depends on its physical features and the recent variants of Covid-19 still possess the basic physical properties of being an enveloped virus. The lipid envelope that surrounds the COVID-19 virus and all other enveloped viruses can be easily attacked by GK-GermKiller^® due to the optimised formulation with the active ingredient. The virus will therefore be inactivated regardless of the changes of the amino acids (as shown in the table above) on the surface of the viruses. In other words, despite having mutated variations in the surface structure, the different COVID-19 variants remain powerless against GK-GermKiller’s chemical attack.

Methods of COVID-19 prevention remain the same for Omicron or any other COVD-19 variants:
– Get vaccinated (and get a booster if one is eligible)
– Get tested if one has symptoms
– Wear a well-fitting mask in public places
– Choose outdoors over indoors whenever possible
– Wash one’s hands with soap and water frequently
– Practice social distancing
– Disinfect high-touch surfaces
– GK-GermKiller^® disinfectants have been in the market for almost a decade and are equally effective against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants. The disinfectants are used across various sectors like medical, airlines, schools, and other hygiene-sensitive areas. Despite being certified hospital-grade disinfectants, they are formulated to be suitable to be used frequently in homes and offices alike.

Reference
https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/do-disinfectants-kill-newer-strains-coronavirus
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant.html
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Infection-prevention-and-control-in-healthcare-settings-COVID-19_6th_update_9_Feb_2021.pdf
https://www.who.int/en/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants/
https://www.who.int/news/item/26-11-2021-classification-of-omicron-(b.1.1.529)-sars-cov-2-variant-of-concern

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Debunking Disinfectant Myths: Part 2

Clarice Tan — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:39:57 +0000

This is part 2 of the article on common disinfectant myths.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, people are increasingly gaining awareness on the importance of practising good hygiene. The use of disinfectants and sanitisers has become an essential part of the everyday fight against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

However, as the interest in disinfectants rises, various disinfectant marketing stints with unsubstantiated claims start to spread as quickly as the virus. With a lot of dubious disinfectant claims and promises going around, one might be unsure as to the trustworthiness of the information they come across.

In order to shed some light on the authenticity of some of these claims, GK-GermKiller® consulted the resident cleaning expert, Ms Francia Solis, Head of Singapore’s COVID-19 Cleaning and Disinfection Industry Task Force and Senior Chemist of Vance Chemicals to debunk the most recent and important myths around disinfectants.

Previously, these common misconceptions were addressed:

Myth #1: All disinfectants are the same
Myth #2: “Food-grade” disinfectants/sanitisers can be ingested OR applied directly on food
Myth #3: Self-disinfecting coating lasts 3 months so there is no need to keep disinfecting/sanitising.
Myth #4: Bleach is the best product for disinfecting

In this article, common disinfectant myths will be debunked and explained in greater detail:

Myth #5: All products with the recommended active ingredients against COVID-19 are effective

During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, government health authorities were quick to release a list of active ingredients to look for which are effective against COVID-19. Many disinfectant companies made use of the list, quickly jumped on the bandwagon and introduced new ‘disinfectants’ to meet the surging demand. Especially in countries without strict regulations governing the sales and distribution of disinfectants, many brands emerged on the shelves with unsubstantiated claims. Unfortunately, many consumers believed that the disinfectants would be effective as long as they were using active ingredients listed on government websites.

There are many factors and compounds contributing to the effectiveness of antibacterial agents. That is why manufacturers and health authorities recommend disinfectant companies to send their disinfectants for tests and certifications.

GK-Germkiller® disinfectants were formulated in 2012 and have since been decked with test reports to support efficacy and safety claims. Even before COVID-19, GK Surface has already been tested against Human Coronavirus 229E which was the surrogate strain of COVID-19. As soon as the lab tests on the actual strain of COVID-19 were available, the GK products were sent to the US for testing by an accredited lab – the first in Singapore.

Myth #6: A Chemical-free Disinfectant is the safest for your family

‘Chemical-free’ is a marketing term broadly-used to imply that a product is safe, healthy or environmentally friendly because it only contains natural ingredients. The truth is, a chemical-free disinfectant does not exist, as all substances and objects are made up entirely of chemicals and energy. Using a generic, sweeping term such as “chemical-free” is very inaccurate, as it promotes a fear or aversion to chemicals (chemophobia) and misleads consumers, instead of properly educating them.

Most users might skip reading up on the actual ingredients of a product simply because it is labelled with a “chemical-free” term. As a result of that, their understanding of legitimate risks behind the product use is clouded.

GK-Germkiller® has been used and trusted by many childcare centres and airlines for years. With biodegradable formulation, GK-Germkiller® disinfectants were tested for health effects in accordance with OECD Standards to ensure users’ safety. The results show that GK-Germkiller® disinfectants are suitable for daily use, as they are non-toxic and will not cause any irritation when used as recommended.

Myth #7: There is NO need to disinfect daily

Gone are the days where we only cleaned surfaces once a week. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that viruses can survive for days at a time. There is a need to maintain a disinfecting regime daily, be it at home, in the office, or wherever people gather. Instead of engaging professionals to disinfect a home, one can count on GK-Germkiller® to address every household disinfectant need. Not only are the disinfectants certified hospital-grade, they are also proven to be effective against a wide range of bacteria and germs.

Spray and wipe GK Surface™ on high-touch areas like door knobs, light switches and countertops. Freshen your room while killing odour-causing bacteria by spraying GK Air™. When headed outdoors, make sure to carry GK Surface Wipes™ and wipe tables, food trays or chairs before using them. A few minutes a day can make such a huge difference in protecting loved ones.

Reduce risks and protect loved ones

There is a great need for brands and companies to be more transparent about their products. GK- Germkiller® prides itself in being transparent to its users. All information such as product safety data sheets (SDS), test reports and any claim substantiation is readily available upon request.

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Debunking Disinfectant Myths: Part 1

Clarice Tan — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 08:37:27 +0000

In this article, common disinfectant myths will be debunked and explained in greater detail.

Myth #1: All disinfectants are the same

Disinfectants are not all created equal. A typical consumer might simply purchase the first disinfectant/hand sanitiser they come across, or just a familiar disinfectant brand assuming that all disinfectants and hand sanitisers can perform the same functions.

The truth is, there are differences in the spectrum of efficacy, concentration, hazards, contact times, applications and even personal protection needed for proper usage. Some formulas are only effective against common pathogens found at home, while others are considered as high-level disinfectants with a very wide range of efficacy against antibiotic-resistant organisms. When it comes to choosing the right disinfectant, it is recommended to consider four primary factors: Effectiveness, Kill Time, Safety and Ease of Use.

GK-Germkiller® disinfectants are certified hospital grade disinfectants which are safe to be used in homes and for daily use. The GK-Germkiller® range of disinfectants has different applications and each variant is strategically formulated for optimum efficacy with the user’s safety in mind.

Myth #2: “Food-grade” disinfectants/sanitisers can be ingested OR applied directly on food

Most people assume that a “food-grade” disinfectant/sanitiser is safe for ingestion and can be directly applied on food. However, on closer inspection, all food-grade sanitisers have a similar disclaimer written on their labels “Our sanitisers are not meant for consumption. Please do not consume/ingest it.”

The definition of “food-grade” can mean different things across different sectors, because there is no official agency that can issue a ‘food grade’ certification. In the food industry, “food grade compliance” refers to a comprehensive process which requires all food components and the surfaces they come in contact with are safe for human consumption.

Many misunderstand; and confuse the “food-grade” term on disinfectant bottles to be safe for consumption. The “food-grade” term is not the same as a “food-safe” claim. Disinfectants can NOT be ingested or applied directly to food.

GK-Concentrate™ has the NSF mark on its label to show consumers that it is a registered product under NSF International, an organisation pioneering food safety. The NSF mark is your assurance that the product has been tested by one of the most respected independent certification organisations in existence today.

Myth #3: Self-disinfecting coating lasts 3 months so there is no need to keep disinfecting/sanitising.

While this claim might be true in a laboratory setting, it is not the case in a real life setting where there are constant and uncontrolled amounts of pathogens in different forms. There is no way of telling how much bacteria or viruses are lying dead on the coated surface. The accumulative effect of pathogens piling on the coated surface can quickly become overwhelming, resulting in the coating losing its disinfecting ability eventually.

Such a claim can be misleading as it suggests that surfaces treated with self-disinfecting coating will be free of harmful pathogens. People take for granted that the coated surface is safe and does notdo not require regular disinfection.

In fact, it is still recommended to disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly. GK Surface™ is a highly effective disinfectant that protects surfaces by applying it once or twice a day.

Myth #4: Bleach is the best product for disinfecting

Chlorine bleach is an inexpensive disinfectant that is widely used mostly because of its affordability. While it is cheap, it is certainly not the best choice when it comes to safety and efficiency. Bleach exposure can cause irritation in the eyes, mouth, lungs and skin. Bleach can burn human tissue; internally or externally, especially in small children. Individuals with asthma or other breathing problems are particularly susceptible.

Disinfecting with bleach is a two-step process. In order for bleach to function properly as a disinfectant, the surface MUST be cleaned prior to the application of bleach. The effectiveness of bleach depends on the amount of active chlorine and the sodium hypochlorite in the solution. However as both active ingredients are easily affected by factors such as storage temperature, water hardness and presence of soil contaminants in the holding container, it is important to note that a fresh solution of bleach MUST be made prior to ensure effective disinfection or sanitation.

Time and safety is very important and despite the savings in buying bleach, it is crucial to have a ready-to-use formula like GK-Germkiller® to reduce the risk of virus spreading. GK-Germkiller® disinfectants were tested for ingestion, inhalation and dermal toxicity, as well as eye and skin irritation and sensitisation. The results showed that it was far safer than bleach and most common cleaners.

[to be continued]

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GK-GermKiller® discontinues Water-based Hand Sanitiser Gel

Clarice Tan — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 07:01:32 +0000

GK-GermKiller® discontinues crowd-favourite Water-based Hand Sanitiser Gel (in both 60ml & 500ml). GK Hand Sanitiser (Water-based Gel) has been an essential in our homes and with our families. However, it will sadly be discontinued due to the discontinuation of the raw materials required.

GK-GermKiller® will still feature the water-based Hand Sanitiser Spray and alcohol-based Hand Sanitiser gel.

Thank you for your continual support in GK-GermKiller®!

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