
Get exclusive shopping offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
Updated
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
The easiest bleach of the bunch to use, Sard was the best rated overall by Australians.
Disinfectants are chemicals that kill germs. They're designed to be used on surfaces to destroy bacteria, viruses and fungi. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant.
Disinfectants come in a few different forms. Your main options are:
There are also some powder formulas available that are designed for use on tiled surfaces.
To find the right disinfectant for your home, you'll need to compare products based on a few key factors. Make sure you consider the following.
Check the label to find out where the disinfectant is meant to be used around the home. Some are designed for use on kitchen benchtops, in bathrooms, on floors and tiles, in toilet bowls or in a load of washing. Also check whether there are any particular surfaces which a disinfectant cannot be used on.
Check the label to find out what germs a particular bleach or disinfectant is effective against. If you're looking for a product you can use to combat COVID-19, check out the Therapeutic Goods Administration's list of disinfectants that have been entered into the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) for use against COVID-19.
Prices vary depending on the type of disinfectant you buy. If you buy disinfectant liquid, prices typically range from less than $0.10 per 100mL to around $2.50 per 100mL. Spray prices typically fall in the $0.50-$3 per 100mL price range, while disinfectant wipes generally cost around $0.03-$0.10 per wipe.
Check the instructions on how to apply the disinfectant. Will you need to dilute it first?
If you don't like the overpowering smell of some disinfectants, shop around for a product with a less intense fragrance.
Check how long the disinfectant needs to be left on a surface in order to be effective against germs.
As always, buying in bulk can help you save, while it's important to compare similar products of differing sizes on the same basis, for example, price per 100mL.
Cleaning and disinfecting are both important to stop the spread of germs, but these two terms don't refer to the same thing.
Cleaning refers to the process of removing germs and dirt from surfaces with a detergent or soap and water, while disinfecting involves the use of chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. According to Safe Work Australia, you need to clean surfaces before disinfecting them, as the presence of dirt and grime can reduce the germ-killing effectiveness of disinfectants.
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces around your home that are frequently touched, from doorknobs and light switches to kitchen benches and the TV remote, can help prevent the spread of germs.
Some products can be used for both cleaning and disinfecting. Ensure that you follow the instructions on the label so that you use these products effectively.
There are a few other factors that you should consider when shopping for household bleach or disinfectant:
Ready to start shopping? Check out our guide to the best bleaches in Australia.
Total Score | Overall rating | Value for Money | Ease of use | Effectiveness | Smell | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sard | 8.29 | 4.64 | 4.14 | 4.59 | 4.50 | 3.95 |
White King | 8.15 | 4.54 | 4.16 | 4.56 | 4.66 | 3.68 |
Woolworths | 8.06 | 4.34 | 4.52 | 4.62 | 4.34 | 3.92 |
Dettol | 8.05 | 4.45 | 4.10 | 4.53 | 4.39 | 4.00 |
Pine O Cleen | 8.05 | 4.45 | 4.00 | 4.45 | 4.37 | 4.29 |
ALDI | 8.00 | 4.32 | 4.40 | 4.44 | 4.36 | 4.16 |
Coles | 7.82 | 4.18 | 4.44 | 4.46 | 4.34 | 3.70 |
Other | 7.71 | 4.33 | 3.89 | 4.50 | 4.17 | 3.56 |
Actizyme | 7.08 | 3.50 | 3.50 | 3.50 | 5.00 | 4.50 |
Euca | 6.75 | 3.50 | 3.25 | 3.75 | 4.25 | 3.25 |
We’ll show you how to compare your options and choose a drain cleaner for your home plumbing needs.
What you need to know to compare and choose an oven and cooktop cleaner for your kitchen.
What you need to know to choose the right pedestal fan for your home.
Australia’s top-rated cleaning brands have been revealed across a range of categories in Finder’s 2020/2021 Retail Awards.
Steam mops are an effective way to clean your floors and other parts of your home. Find out how to compare models and choose the right one for you.
Antimicrobial fogging prevents the spread of a wide range of viruses, bacteria and fungi in your home.
Mooval is a Victoria-based home services company offering a one-stop shop for your moving, cleaning or storage needs.
Rid your home or workplace of germs, viruses and bacteria with a quick antiviral treatment.
We peruse reviews from real customers and compare key product features to find the best carpet cleaners you can buy right now in Australia.
Industrial chic is bang on trend right now. Achieve the look in your home with polished concrete floors.