What is NOT a property of an ideal disinfectant?

An ideal disinfectant possesses several essential properties that enhance its effectiveness and safety in a clinical or healthcare setting. One important characteristic of an ideal disinfectant is that it should be broad spectrum, meaning it can effectively eliminate a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, it should act quickly to reduce the risk of infection, making fast-acting properties crucial. Moreover, an ideal disinfectant needs to be easy to use; this ensures that it can be applied effectively without complicated procedures that might lead to errors.

Highly toxic substances, however, are not a desirable property of an ideal disinfectant. While some disinfectants may be toxic, especially to humans or animals, an ideal disinfectant would minimize harmful effects on users while still being effective against pathogens. The focus of quality disinfectants is on safety for both patients and dental healthcare providers, balancing efficacy with reduced toxicity. Therefore, the emphasis is on choosing a disinfectant that is not only effective but also safe for regular use, making high toxicity an undesirable characteristic.