CDC Chemical Disinfectants

1. Click to Explore Categories

Alcohols

• Ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol (60–90%).
• Bactericidal, tuberculocidal, fungicidal, virucidal (no sporicidal).
• Mechanism: protein denaturation; water aids unfolding.
• Limitations: rapid evaporation, flammable, non‐sporocidal.

Chlorine & Compounds

• Hypochlorites (e.g., bleach 5.25–6.15% NaOCl).
• Broad‐spectrum; removes biofilms; low residue.
• Active: HOCl (drops at high pH).
• Limitations: corrosive, inactivated by organics, toxic gas risk.

Aldehydes

• Glutaraldehyde (2%): high‐level, sporicidal with time.
• Formaldehyde: sporicidal; limited by vapor hazard.
• Requires ventilation and exposure monitoring.

Other Agents

• Phenolics: intermediate, residual action; irritating.
• QACs: good vs. vegetative bacteria, enveloped viruses.
• Iodophors: broad‐spectrum; performance varies.
• Peroxygens (H₂O₂, peracetic acid): sporicidal oxidizers.

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2. Filterable Disinfectant Table

Show category: All Alcohols Chlorine & Compounds Aldehydes Other Agents

Name	Category	Spectrum
Isopropyl alcohol (70%)	Alcohols	Bacteria, fungi, viruses
Household bleach (5.25% NaOCl)	Chlorine & Compounds	Broad‐spectrum, biofilms
Glutaraldehyde (2%)	Aldehydes	High‐level, spores
Hydrogen peroxide (6%)	Other Agents	Sporicidal oxidizer

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3. Quick Quiz

1. Which category uses HOCl as its active agent?

2. True or False: Alcohols are sporicidal.

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Reference

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Chemical Disinfectants.” Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008. cdc.gov/chemical-disinfectants