What are agents called that are used to disinfect inanimate objects and primarily have germicidal action?

The term that describes agents used to disinfect inanimate objects and primarily exhibit germicidal action is "disinfectants." These substances are specifically formulated to destroy or inactivate harmful microorganisms on surfaces that do not involve living tissue. Disinfectants are essential in various settings, including hospitals, laboratories, and homes, where maintaining a sterile environment is crucial to prevent the spread of infections and diseases.

Antiseptics, on the other hand, are designed for use on living tissues, such as skin, to inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Cleansers refer to products used for cleaning surfaces and may not necessarily have germicidal properties. Sanitizers reduce the number of pathogens on surfaces but do not typically achieve the same level of microbial destruction as disinfectants. Therefore, amongst these terms, "disinfectants" specifically denotes the agents which are used to disinfect inanimate objects with a focus on their germicidal capabilities.