Expiration date of disinfectants

The following is a comprehensive analysis of the expiration date and precautions for use of common disinfectants: ‌
1. Chlorine-containing disinfectants (such as 84 disinfectant)
‌Unopened validity period: Usually 1-2 years, please check the product label for details.
‌Precautions after opening: Sodium hypochlorite is volatile, it is recommended to seal and store in a cool place away from light, and try to use it within 1 month after opening to ensure the effective chlorine concentration.
‌Concentration requirements‌: The effective chlorine content must be maintained at 5.5%~6.5%, and it may be ineffective if the concentration is too low.
2. Alcohol disinfectants (such as ethanol, isopropanol)
‌Unopened validity period: Generally 2-3 years, but it should be noted that alcohol is volatile, and long-term storage may cause the concentration to decrease.
‌Expiration date after opening:
Quick hand disinfectant: 30 days (alcohol) or 90 days (such as the cleansing soft brand) after opening.
Small package iodine tincture/alcohol: only 7 days, the activation time must be marked.
3. Iodine disinfectants
‌Expiration date‌: Unopened, usually 2-3 years. After opening, use within 7-10 days.
‌Special requirements‌: Strict aseptic operation is required, and the bottle cap should be closed in time.
4. Other types
‌Hydrogen peroxide‌: Unopened, the validity period can reach 3 years, but the stability is greatly affected by light and temperature.
‌Disinfectant wipes‌: The validity period is 1 month after opening. It needs to be sealed and the opening time should be marked.
5. General precautions
‌Check the label‌: All disinfectants must be marked with the production date, expiration date and storage conditions. Counterfeit products may lack key information.
‌Avoid stockpiling‌: Excessive purchases may cause expiration and failure, especially chlorine-containing disinfectants and alcohol products.
‌Action time‌: Disinfection requires a certain duration of action. Do not trust "flash sale" propaganda.