Disinfectants - Types and Applications

Disinfectants are chemical agents that destroy or inactivate microorganisms on surfaces to prevent the spread of infections.
Category
Product
Where to get
Widely available for purchase at convenience stores and supermarkets.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Disinfectants FAQ


Image credit: walmart.com

What does disinfectant mean?

The meaning of DISINFECTANT is an agent used to disinfect something; especially : a chemical agent that is used especially on hard surfaces and in water (such as drinking water or wastewater) to destroy, inactivate, or significantly reduce the concentration of pathogens (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi). How to use disinfectant in a sentence.

What is a common disinfectant?

Some common disinfectants are bleach and alcohol solutions. You usually need to leave the disinfectant on the surfaces and objects for a certain period of time to kill the germs. Disinfecting does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs. Sanitizing could be done by either cleaning, disinfecting, or both.

How important is a disinfectant?

They can play an important role in infection control. They are not to be taken internally or used on the skin, and when selecting a disinfectant for use, it is important to consider whether it is suitable for the surfaces you wish to disinfect.

What are disinfectants used for?

Disinfectants are typically supplied in the form of liquids, sprays, wipes, sponges and aerosols. (such as drinking water purification and treatment equipment; sanitation, environmental control and environmental detoxification equipment). For full definitions of disinfectants, refer to Part 1, Section 2 of the Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990.

What is an example of a disinfectant?

A disinfectant is a substance intended by the manufacturer to be applied to an inanimate object to kill microorganisms. Examples of inanimate objects include curtains, floors, bench tops, lounge furniture and carpets. Disinfectants are typically supplied in the form of liquids, sprays, wipes, sponges and aerosols.

What is a good disinfectant?

Disinfectants containing ≥ 70% alcohol, quaternary ammonium compounds (such as benzalkonium chloride) or diluted household bleach (including products containing sodium hypochlorite) are suitable for use. Disinfectants are liquids, sprays and wipes that are designed for use on surfaces to kill germs (microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses).

Disinfectants References

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