What are the different kinds of disinfectant?

Answer 1

Disinfectants are drugs used to kill microrobes on non-living tissue (as opposed to in situ, on living tissue, on non-organic surfaces, etc.). The primary different types include: * Alcohols (Ethyl and Isopropyl) * Aldehydes (from oxidized alcohols) * Oxidizers (H2O2 is especially well known, as is chlorine (bleach)). * Iodine (Betadine et al). * Phenolics (often in mouthwash) * UV light (under special circumstances). Note that the quallity of a disinfectant is that it is basically a topical toxin that does not leave a residue. As such, many other toxins can be used effectively for disinfection. One can even use high-flow sterile saline, which act as a dessicant on bacteria and larger.