What are chemical products that destroy most bacteria, fungi, and viruses called?

Chemical products that destroy most bacteria, fungi, and viruses are referred to as disinfectants. These substances are specifically formulated to eliminate or significantly reduce harmful microorganisms on surfaces, thereby preventing infection and maintaining hygiene in various settings, such as salons, spas, and healthcare facilities.

Disinfectants are particularly essential in environments where the risk of infection is heightened because they effectively target a wide range of pathogens. They play a crucial role in infection control practices and are often stronger than products categorized as sanitizers or antiseptics.

Sanitizers, while useful, primarily reduce the number of bacteria on surfaces to safe levels but may not eliminate all types of pathogens, which is a key distinction from disinfectants. Antiseptics are designed for application on living tissue to reduce the risk of infection in wounds or before surgical procedures, but they do not necessarily destroy all viruses and fungi as disinfectants do. Cleaners refer to products that remove dirt and impurities but do not specifically target bacteria, fungi, or viruses, making them insufficient on their own for infection control purposes.