The difference between antiseptic and disinfectant is quite simple. First, let’s learn about, what is disinfectant?

Disinfectants are chemicals to kill the vegetative form of bacteria, viruses, fungi. It eliminates microorganisms by distracting their lipid, protein, and nucleic acid.

NOTE: Disinfectant does not eliminate spores and non-vegetative forms of the microorganisms. avail cleaning the NON-LIVING surface or OBJECTS have been in contact with body fluid or pathological tissue in the clinical laboratory.

Classification of antiseptic and disinfectant in microbiology

In microbiology, antiseptic and disinfectant are classified into two groups.

• Disinfectant
• Antiseptic

WHAT is Disinfectant in Microbiology ?

Disinfectants are chemicals. They are applied to non-living things. These chemicals are toxic and corrosive for living tissue.

what are the 7 different Types of Disinfectants in the clinical laboratory ?

There are eight types of disinfectants we use. Each type has a different composition.

1. Phenolic Compound. Phenol is used for cleaning the floor, washroom, and bedpans. Examples Phenol, Dettol.
2. Metallic Salts: Mercuric Chloride used as a skin disinfectant. Nitrate 1 % is used for gonococcal eye infection.
3. Formaldehyde: It is a rapid bacteriocidal disinfectant. 10 % solution used as a fixative in histopathology lab.
4. Halogen: Chlorine use for disinfecting food and water. Tincture and iodine used for skin disinfectant.
5. Soap and Detergents: There are multipurpose disinfectants.
6. Volatile: Ethyl alcohol in 70% solution used as skin disinfectant before injection.
7. Gaseous Compounds: Ethylene oxide can use as disinfectants.

What is an Antiseptic and examples?

Antiseptic is nontoxic substances for living surfaces like wounds or cut on the body. Antiseptics are effective for cleaning wounds. Examples Alcohol, spirit, iodine

NOTE: It is the same chemicals as disinfectants. these chemicals are in reduce concentration on the skin.