What's the most effective disinfectant?

The most effective disinfectant depends on what organisms you need to kill, surface type, and required contact time, as no single disinfectant is best for all situations. For broad-spectrum disinfection of hard non-porous surfaces, EPA-registered products based on bleach, sodium hypochlorite, are among the most effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores when used at proper dilution and contact time. Accelerated hydrogen peroxide formulations are also highly effective and considered effective against a wide range of pathogens including harder to kill non-enveloped viruses. In healthcare settings, products effective against Clostridioides difficile spores and tuberculosis are rated highest. Alcohol at seventy percent is highly effective for many bacteria and enveloped viruses but not spores. Effectiveness also depends on cleaning first, because organic matter reduces disinfectant action, and maintaining the required wet contact time. For drinking water, chlorine is most effective at scale. Rather than one most effective product, choose an EPA-registered disinfectant proven effective against your target organisms and follow label directions precisely for best results.