A disinfectant is an agent that is designed to kill problematic microorganisms.  Also, known as germicides, disinfectants can be applied to objects and surfaces in order to reduce the risk of infection.

What should you look for in laboratory disinfectants?

Whether you’re looking to get control of colonies of existing pathogens, or simply maintain a lab’s safety level after decontamination, you need to understand what the differences between disinfectants are. You want to know how they react with the materials around your facility, and which one will help you achieve the goals laid out in your sanitation gameplan.

Disinfectants are chemical agents applied to non-living objects in order to destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold or mildew. All disinfectants must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Understanding disinfectants requires a little know-how, but knowing the laboratory disinfectant for you can be as easy as using our handy Product Filter, which helps you sort Quip Labs products by pathogens, active ingredients or industry!

(Need help picking out cleaners? Watch our Youtube Video on Cleaner Types to learn more!)

The “active ingredient” in each disinfectant formula is what kills pathogens, usually by disrupting or damaging microorganism’s cells. In addition to the active ingredients, we also add other ingredients for various purposes such as surfactants, detergents and wetting agents.

Check out our youtube series below for more info on laboratory disinfection, and don’t forget to check out our Sanitation Survival Guide at the bottom of the page for more general sanitation tips!