How do disinfectants differ from antiseptics?

Disinfectants and antiseptics serve different purposes based on their application areas and the surfaces they target. Disinfectants are specifically formulated to eliminate or reduce the number of pathogens on inanimate objects such as countertops, surgical instruments, and other surfaces. They are typically more potent and may contain strong chemicals that are not safe for use on living tissues.

On the other hand, antiseptics are designed for application on living tissues. They work to reduce the possibility of infection by killing or inhibiting the growth of microbes on skin and mucous membranes. Antiseptics are generally formulated to be safe for direct contact with bodily tissues, which is crucial for preventing infections during medical procedures or even for everyday use like hand sanitization.

Therefore, distinguishing the appropriate use of disinfectants and antiseptics emphasizes the need to consider safety and effectiveness based on the context of their use.