Antimicrobial agents in detergents are chemical substances added to cleaning formulations to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, enhancing hygiene and preventing the spread of infections during cleaning.
Types of Antimicrobial Agents in Detergents:
Surfactants with Antimicrobial Properties
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats
Halogen-based Agents
Phenolic Compounds
Alcohols (Ethanol, Isopropanol)
Organic and Inorganic Acids
Laundry detergents, hand and surface soaps, disinfecting detergents for healthcare and industrial use these agents.
Regulatory agencies have restricted or banned several antimicrobial ingredients like triclosan in consumer soaps due to lack of efficacy over plain soap and potential harms.