Guide to Disinfectants

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Kinds of Disinfectants include the following:

Bleach disinfectant

• A bleach disinfectant effectively eliminates most types of bacteria.
• Its concentration varies according to manufacturer.
• It does not eliminate viruses effectively because it is easily diffused by organic matter.
• It is ineffective in aviaries and areas with high organic matter content.
• It can easily destroy metals, cloth, and wood, as it is toxic and highly corrosive.
• It is highly unstable, its disinfecting properties weakening in time.

• A glutaraldehyde/formaldehyde disinfectant eliminates bacteria well.
• It acts slowly, needing two to 12 hours before the total bacteria-killing effects can happen.
• It is easily diffused by organic matter and needs to be activated prior to use.
• After a month of activation, it loses as much as 60% of its disinfecting power.
• It is toxic, difficult to dispose, and has a short shelf life.
• It has adverse side effects for humans such as allergic dermatitis and respiratory distress.

• An alcohol disinfectant effectively kills bacteria but cannot eliminate viruses, algae, and fungi.
• An effective alcohol disinfectant has a concentration level of at least 70%.
• It does not work well on organic matter such as cages, nest boxes, and wooden perches.
• It is flammable.

• A hydrogen peroxide disinfectant works well against viruses and bacteria.
• It can explode when made in high concentrations, so it must not be stored in air-tight spaces.
• It is difficult to get in liquid form, as it is usually made in powder form for cleaning dentures.
• Its disinfecting quality wanes in time.

• A halogenated tertiary amines disinfectant is a biodegradable substance highly effective against algae, bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• It is also called enviroclens.
• It is noncorrosive and nontoxic.
• It does not require activation.
• It is stable, inexpensive, and has a long shelf life.
• However, it can make skin dry or irritated with regular use.

Use: Choose a disinfectant that can effectively clean the object or place you intend to disinfect. For cleaning sensitive areas like bathrooms, pet cages, and kitchens, get a strong disinfectant that can effectively kill bacteria and viruses.

Side effects: When cleaning metals or porous materials like wood or cloth, choose a noncorrosive disinfectant.

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