Differences Between Dettol Disinfectant and “84” Disinfectant

Disinfectants are an indispensable part of daily life; however, selecting a high-quality disinfectant remains a common source of concern for many people. What, then, are the key differences between Dettol and “84” disinfectant?

Differences Between Dettol and “84” Disinfectant

The primary distinctions between Dettol and “84” disinfectant lie in their active ingredients and respective efficacy profiles. Dettol’s main active ingredient is chloroxylenol—a highly effective disinfectant—whereas “84” disinfectant primarily contains sodium hypochlorite. Furthermore, their effects differ significantly: Dettol is predominantly bactericidal and generally non-damaging to surfaces or objects, whereas “84” disinfectant is corrosive and may degrade fibers in certain materials. When using “84” disinfectant for large-scale household disinfection, ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows.

Sodium hypochlorite-based disinfectants (commonly referred to as chlorine-containing disinfectants) are widely used for surface and environmental disinfection. Sodium hypochlorite decomposes to release nascent oxygen, which possesses strong oxidizing properties capable of oxidizing viral nucleic acids and thereby inactivating viruses. Consequently, both chlorine-containing disinfectants and 75% alcohol can disrupt the outer envelope of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), rendering it non-infectious.

For routine household use, a disinfectant concentration of 300–500 mg/L is generally sufficient. If measuring with standard mineral water bottle caps (each cap ≈ 7 mL), mix two capfuls of 5% “84” disinfectant solution into a container holding three bottles of mineral water to achieve the recommended 300–500 mg/L concentration suitable for home disinfection. We hope this information proves helpful!