What Are Antimicrobials?

Almost everywhere you look, you can find microorganisms, or microbes, living organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye. While some microbes are good and important to many ecosystems, others can cause serious illnesses. That’s why we rely on the “good chemistry” of substances known as antimicrobials.

Antimicrobials, also known as biocides, prevent the growth and spread of unwanted microbes. We rely on a class of antimicrobials known as disinfectants to kill many disease-causing viruses (like the flu), bacteria (examples include E. coli and salmonella), fungi (such as mold) and other microbes before they can make you and your family sick. Disinfectants are used in hospitals, homes, schools, and countless other spaces to help kill germs, treat drinking water, ensure products last longer, and keep manufacturing processes running safely. As you can see, these good chemistry touch many aspects of our daily lives.
Learn Where Antimicrobials Are Used

Would you like to see the many places and ways that antimicrobials help keep you safe from harmful germs?

Check out our Antimicrobials 101 video below.

What Kind of ANTI Are You?

If you’re anti-odor, anti-spoil or anti-spread (and who isn’t?), antimicrobials are here to protect you in countless ways each day.

Antimicrobials act as tiny superheroes in our everyday lives. You may not be aware of their powers – but have been saved by them in your daily routine.
LEARN your ANTI

Antimicrobials, Antibacterials, Antibiotics – Are They All the Same?

Antimicrobials, antibacterials, antibiotics – they’re all the same, right? Although these sound similar, there are distinct differences between these chemistries.

Antibiotics are antimicrobials but not all antimicrobials are antibiotics. Antimicrobial medicines used to treat or prevent bacterial infections in humans or animals are antibiotics. And, while antibacterial products prevent the development of bacteria, antimicrobials have a broader spectrum and can kill and stop the spread of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. This website focuses on antimicrobials that control harmful microbes on inanimate objects and surfaces.