Quat Binding Detection Strips
SKU: 33819-1500
Indigo® brand 0-1500ppm QAC test strips can reveal whether your multi-quat sanitizer is compromised by quat binding. Quat binding occurs when quaternary ammonium disinfectants are absorbed by cleaning tools such as cotton mops, cellulose sponges, or microfiber cloths.
These materials have high surface areas that “soak up” the sanitizer, leaving less active quat in your bucket or spray solution. This can result in concentrations well below the target range, even if the sanitizer was mixed correctly. To avoid quat binding, choose cleaning materials that are resistant to absorption, such as polyester, nylon, or polypropylene cloths, mop heads, and scrub pads. Using Indigo® 0–1500 ppm quat test strip to verify that sanitizer levels are effective, regardless of the tools or surfaces in use.
Quat binding can reduce the effective disinfectant level by as much as 50%, rendering it non-compliant with FDA usage guidelines for controlling healthcare associated infection caused by pathogens such as VRE, MRSA, HIV & TB which can remain viable on doorknobs, handrails, sinks.
High level QAC can compensate for the diluting effect of quat binding where a positively charged quaternary ammonium compound is attracted & absorbed by negatively charged fabrics such as cotton, nonwoven towels and other natural textiles used in mops & cloths.
What types of materials absorb quats most?
- High absorption (greatest quat binding): cotton towels, microfiber cloths, cellulose-based wipes, some porous plastics.
- Lower absorption (least quat binding): polyester, polypropylene, and certain synthetic mop fibers.
- Because quat binding varies by material, facilities using cotton rags or microfiber towels often experience the biggest drop in available sanitizer concentration.
Who benefits from higher 1500 ppm testing?
- Food processors & commercial kitchens – quats are used in 200–400 ppm range, but organic load and quat binding may reduce strength below required levels. Testing up to 1500 ppm ensures accurate adjustment when higher concentrations are mixed to compensate.
- Janitorial & custodial staff – especially when using reusable cloths or mop heads that absorb quats.
- HACCP coordinators & food safety auditors – for verifying compliance and preventing pathogen survival due to under-dosed sanitizer.
All Indigo® Quat (QAC) test strips come in 100 (not 50) strips per pack & 3 year minimum guaranteed shelf life backed by a Certificate of Analysis, Stability & SDS documents as listed below; Certificate of Conformance on request. Be prepared for any health & safety audit or inspection.
