What Is A UV Light Sanitizer? Why Do You Need A UV Light Sanitizer?

Between soaps, face washes, hand washes, and cleansing gels, there are a million products out there to help you keep your skin clean and germ-free. But what about the objects around you? Take your phone, for example – you are constantly scrolling through multiple apps all day, and it’s not always after washing your hands. Bottom line: there’s an army of microbes living on your stuff. A UV light sanitizer is like the equivalent of your tech devices and other objects taking a shower every day. You can use one on plastic and glass objects to rid them of germs. A UV light sanitizer, as the name suggests, uses UV light to sanitize products and surfaces, making them free of illness-causing pathogens.

How Do UV Light Sanitizers Work?

A UV light sanitizer makes use of the UV-C light in the ultraviolet light spectrum (the others are UV-A and UV-B). UV-C light is capable of killing germs and has a wide range of effectiveness. UV-C light can interfere with and destroy nucleic acids in bacteria and other microbes. It also kills some amino acids and disrupts proteins in those microbes. For best results, use UV light to sanitize smooth surfaces. However, UV-C light does have some limitations as it cannot reach crevices and nooks on uneven surfaces. This includes buttons and germs inside food particles. A UV light sanitizes quickly, but you must keep in mind that the surface can only remain clean for a limited time. Using a light sanitizer doesn’t keep you free from new germs permanently. Let’s find out more about the best UV light sanitizers that you can get your hands on right now.

Top 10 UV Light Sanitizers Of 2022

1. Best Portable:AWE Digital UV Light Sanitizer Wand 

The Awe Digital UV Light Sanitizer Wand is a portable, disinfector lamp that emits UV-C light to remove 99.9% of germs. This UVC sanitizer has an auto-timer that turns off the device after 180 seconds. It can be used to disinfect bathrooms, beds, tables, sofas, mobile phones, toys, pet areas, cars, linen, and towels. You can use it for disinfecting your computers, door handles, and remote controls. It comes with a 1-year guarantee and is safe to use. Pros

Auto-timer Easy to use Non-toxic Portable

Cons None

2. Best Ozone Sterilization:R-Lomu  UV Light Sanitizer 

The R-Lomu UV Light Sanitizer uses UVC sterilizer light to destroy up to 99.9% of harmful germs, viruses, airborne bacteria, and mold spores. This light has a 360° degrees wide beam angle and is made of quartz for a better sterilization effect. This lamp can operate through walls, cabinets, doors and has two operation modes. It can be used safely at your home, laboratories, and offices. The lamp comes with a remote that can be used to set a disinfection time. It turns off automatically once the set time is over. However, ensure to stay away from the light while it is working as exposure to UVC light may cause skin and eye burns. Pros

Ozone sterilization Removes odor Safe to use Remote control

Cons None

3. Best Cordless:Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer

The Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer uses UV-C light to kill airborne germs and mold and helps sanitize the air you breathe at home. It also reduces household odors by eliminating bacteria and cooking fumes, as well as controlling any other unwanted smell. The small size makes it easy to plug in anywhere, and the 7-inch device easily fits in the kitchen, bathroom, kid’s room, or any spot that you want to purify. The device can last a long time, with only the UV-C light bulb needing replacement once in 10-12 months. Check out the review of this product on YouTube to know why it is one of the best out there. Pros

Compact plug-in design Small size fits in most spaces Replaceable UV-C bulb Cordless Helps reduce odors Removes bad odors Travel-friendly 1-year warranty Affordable

Cons

Somewhat loud operation.

4. Best Compact:Proaller Air Purifier And UV Light Disinfectant

Proaller Air Purifier And UV Light Disinfectant operates noiselessly and is capable of killing 99% of germs and viruses. The UV-C light technology works with titanium dioxide to kill airborne viruses. It disinfects the airborne virus and removes odor in 2 hours. This 7-inch disinfectant is ideal for the kitchen, bathroom, sandbox, children’s room, etc. It has a built-in turbine cycle that allows ambient airflow. This portable disinfectant connects to any 120 volts outlet and the sealed design makes it safe to use. Pros

Compact design Rotatable plug Easy bulb installation/replacement Noiseless operation Reduces odor

Cons

None

5. Best Built-In Handle: Pure Enrichment PureZone Elite 4-in-1 Air Purifier

The Pure Enrichment PureZone Elite 4-in-1 Air Purifier uses a 4-stage purification system to clean the air in your room. It starts with an activated carbon pre-filter, followed by a pure HEPA filter. Stage 3 is the UV-C light that kills airborne pathogens, and the 4th stage is an ionizer. The device also features a smart air quality monitor that can detect air particles and indicate the air quality using a color-coded lighting system. Blue is for good air quality, yellow is for fair quality, while red indicates poor air quality and is a signal for turning the PureZone on. The fan speed also adjusts automatically according to the size of the room. Pros

4-stage air purification ETL safety certified Full coverage for the entire room Built-in handle Quiet operation Smart air quality monitor 3-speed fan 5-year warranty

Cons

Expensive Not travel-friendly

6. Best Lamp Life:IPS IP SMART UV Light Sanitizer Wand

IPS IP SMART UV Light Sanitizer Wand is powered with advanced ultraviolet sterilization technology that can kill 99.9 % of harmful germs. The device is equipped with a rechargeable cable which requires one hour of charging to work effectively for 5 hours. The wand is quite small in size and is lightweight. The wand uses a wavelength of 260 to 280 NM to destroy germs. This device comes with a shorter sterilization time of 5 to 10 seconds and can be used on surfactants. It is suitable for home, business, office, travel, etc. Pros

Good sterilization rate Greater lamp life Portable 1-year warranty

Cons

Not for use on human or animal body

7. Best Lightweight:HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer

The HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer is a hit among germaphobes everywhere! You can use it to sanitize all your objects and gadgets that you use most frequently. The portable size is compatible with using at home or while traveling. It can fit in most purses and is capable of killing up to 99.9% of viruses and bacteria. The UV-C light sanitizer works 10 times faster than any conventional sanitizer to keep your belongings pure and germ-free. Just 1 minute inside the sanitizer bag will sanitize and disinfect most items like keys, jewelry, remotes, eyeglasses, and more. The inbuilt safety lock protects against harmful exposure. In this YouTube video, you will find a detailed review of this product. Pros

Mercury-free Chemical-free Lightweight Portable Rechargeable LEDs Cleans in 1 minute Advanced safety lock

Cons

Expensive Not suitable for larger items.

8. Best Replaceable Filter: GermGuardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier

The GermGuardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier helps eliminate 99.97% of dust, pollen, harmful germs, mold spores, pet dander, and other allergens from the air in your room. It is fitted with an inbuilt UV-C light that kills airborne viruses and reduces volatile organic compounds using titanium dioxide. The device also contains a pre-filter that traps larger particles, such as dust and pet hair, and helps the HEPA filter last longer. The activated charcoal filter reduces bad smells and cooking fumes, keeping the air clean and fresh all day. There are three speed settings, the lowest of which may be used as white noise to help you sleep. Check out this video on YouTube for a detailed understanding of the product. Pros

Replaceable filter 3 fan speed settings Filter change indicator Energy Star Certified CARB compliant Reduces bad odors Kills airborne germs and mold

Cons

Noisy operation Not travel-friendly Expensive

9. Best Auto Shut-Off:59S X5 UV Light Sanitizer Wand

The 59S X5 UV Light Sanitizer Wand automatically shuts off when turned upwards or on its side. This is an inbuilt safety feature to keep your eyes protected against harmful UV exposure. Use it at home and while traveling to keep your surroundings sanitized at all times. It efficiently kills 99.9% pathogens on any surface it scans. It gives you less worry and more comfort about being in public spaces, especially in the current climate. For maximum ease and convenience, the device can be recharged with a USB charger. Pros

Auto shut-off for safety Lightweight and compact Powered by 20 UVC LEDs Disinfects within 1-3 minutes USB cable included 1-year warranty

Cons

Expensive Inconsistent performance The battery does not last long.

10. Best Durable:Vanelc UVC Light Sanitizer Wand

The Vanelc UVC Light Sanitizer Wand can be used to clean regular items including mobile phones, keyboards, iPods, remote controls, toothbrushes, and door knobs. Lightweight and extremely handy, this device comes with an auto-timer which efficiently saves power and its child lock feature makes the device safer if you have kids in the house. What’s more? The LED UV Lamp has a lifespan of more than 10,000+ hours and can be used for protection during family vacays, parties, or casual hangouts. Pros

Auto-timer Child lock Easy to use Portable Lightweight and compact Durable

Cons

Not suitable for larger items Expensive

UV sanitizers existed long before the Pandemic brought them to our attention. These handy tools have now become a household requirement. Fortunately, quite a few well-known brands have launched their UV sanitizers on the market and choosing one amongst the many is not all that easy. Let’s take a look at the important factors to consider while choosing the best UV sanitizer.

What To Consider While Choosing The Best UV Sanitizers

Capacity

The capacity of your UV sanitizer must depend on the objects you want to sanitize. Choose a versatile model that is able to keep the germs off your keys, mobile phone, wallet, sunglasses, wireless bud and other small items. In case you are planning on sanitizing bigger objects, then you need sanitizer with a larger capacity.

Cleaning Cycle Time

The amount of time the UV sanitizer requires to complete the sanitization process is the cycle time. Cycle times vary from just one minute to a few hours even. Some may come with a convenient auto cut-off feature for added safety.

Wavelength

The wavelength of the ultraviolet light defines what it can do. UV light is divided into three categories based on wavelength value: UV-A, UV-B and UV-C. UV-C is the only category of UV wavelengths that consistently work for sterilization. It is best to choose a product that provides the exact wavelength, in nanometers (abbreviated nm), at which the ultraviolet energy is emitted. Sanitizers at or near 265 nanometers are the most ideal for sterilization.

Type

UV sanitizers come in a variety of forms, like wands, air purifiers, lamps, and sanitizer bags. Make your choice depending on the objects you want to sanitize. If you are looking to sanitize your mobile make sure it is compatible with your model. It is best to look for a sanitizer that can accommodate large devices like tablets and laptops as well. Additional features like charging ports are a bonus.

Portability

If you want a UV sanitizer to accompany you wherever you go, choose a portable model like a battery-powered handheld wand. They are easy to use, on-the-go, and can be used to disinfect beds, sofas, tables, bathrooms, mobile phones, linen, towels, and car interiors. Now that you know about the best UV light sanitizers out there, read on to know all the advantages these devices offer.

Benefits Of Using UV Light Sanitizers

There are a ton of advantages to using a UV sanitizer:

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Sakshi Bahal, who authored this article, likes to stay updated on health items. She enjoys helping her readers find suitable healthcare products easily. To this end, she went on a journey to look for the best UV light sanitizers for the readers. She tried some herself and read many customer reviews to curate this list. Using UV light, these sanitizers can remove all the harmful pathogens from surfaces. You would not have to worry about touching soaps used by others if you use UV light sanitizers. How effective are UV light sanitizers? UV light sanitizers claim to kill up to 99% of germs by altering their genetic structure. This includes antibiotic-resistant bacteria that cannot be eliminated using standard disinfectants. How long does it take for UV light to sterilize? It depends on the kind of product you are using. Check the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the product, and follow them accurately for best results. Where can UV light be used? UV light is best used on smooth, even surfaces. It is ideal for use on objects and surfaces used by multiple people in a day, such as an office. But you can also use it to clean anything in your home that changes hands frequently, such as remote controls, phones, and tablets. Do UV sanitizers work on toothbrushes? Yes, UV sanitizers work on toothbrushes. They reduce bacterial count and keep your toothbrushes clean. How often should you clean UV sanitizer? Clean the UV sanitizer every week to keep it free of germs and harmful bacteria.

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