Disinfectant

A disinfectant is a chemical used to kill viruses (some, not all) and microbes (germs), such as bacteria and fungi.

All disinfectants are also, by their very nature, potentially harmful (even toxic) to humans or animals. They should be treated with appropriate care. They are frequently used in hospitals, dental surgeries, kitchens and bathrooms to kill infectious organisms. The choice of the exact disinfectant to be used depends on the particular situation. Common disinfectants:

• Chlorine - Used to disinfect swimming pools.
• Ethanol - Wiped over benches and skin for quick disinfection.
• Hydrogen peroxide- Used mainly in hospitals.
• Iodine -Usually dissoved in an organic solvent and used in the poultry industry. It is added to the birds drinking water.
• Potassium chlorate
• Common household bleach - Used in the home to disinfect drains, and toilets. A dilute form is used un der the brand name milton to disinfect baby bottles.
• Toluene
• Virkon - A wide spectrum disinfectant used in labs. Kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The activity of a disinfectant is more bactericidal than bacteriostatic. (They kill them rather than stop them reproducing)