Normal disinfectants, also known as broad-spectrum disinfectants, are formulated to eliminate a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae. They are commonly used for general cleaning and disinfecting purposes and work by disrupting the cell walls or membranes of these microorganisms, ultimately leading to their demise.
In contrast, antimicrobial disinfectants are specifically designed to target and eliminate harmful microbes such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria and viruses. These disinfectants often contain chemicals such as quaternary ammonium compounds or chlorine dioxide that are effective against specific types of microorganisms. Compared to standard disinfectants, antimicrobial disinfectants have demonstrated higher efficacy in eradicating harmful microbes.
Antimicrobial disinfectants work by disrupting the cellular functions of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses. This disruption can occur through several mechanisms, including:
1. Destruction of cell walls or membranes:
Antimicrobial disinfectants can destroy the outer layer of a microorganism, such as its cell wall or membrane, causing the contents of the cell to leak out and leading to its death.
2. Disruption of enzymatic functions:
Some antimicrobial disinfectants can disrupt the enzymatic functions that microorganisms rely on to survive and reproduce. By disrupting these functions, the disinfectant can prevent the microorganism from replicating and cause its death.
3. Interference with genetic material:
Certain antimicrobial disinfectants can interfere with the genetic material, such as DNA or RNA, of microorganisms. This interference can prevent the microorganism from replicating and lead to its death.
4. Oxidative stress:
Antimicrobial disinfectants can also cause oxidative stress in microorganisms by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage the microbe’s cellular components, leading to its death.
Summary:
It’s important to note that not all antimicrobial disinfectants work through the same mechanisms, and different disinfectants may be more effective against certain types of microorganisms. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using antimicrobial disinfectants, as improper use or dilution can reduce their effectiveness.
Read on: Tips On Cleaning & Disinfecting The Right Way
