What is the best way to disinfect a wound? Santé lists six disinfectants for you.
Before disinfecting, it is best to rinse the wound under the tap. In the past, iodine was mainly used for disinfection, but today there are many products on the market. Read more about disinfecting wounds.
Betadine Solution
Price: €4.99 (30ml) via De Online Drogist
Active ingredient: Povidone iodine, a form of iodine that disinfects and accelerates wound healing.
Use: Immediately from the packaging, put some liquid on a cotton ball or sterile gauze and apply it around the wound.
Pros: Easy to apply to the wound and the substance povidone-iodine does not sting.
Cons: The thin solution drips quickly and, in addition to discoloration in the wound, also causes stains that are difficult to wash on clothing. Not suitable for pregnant women and people who are sensitive to iodine or have thyroid problems.
Dettol Sterilon
Price: €3.15 via Bol.com
Active ingredient: Chlorhexidine digluconate.
Use: Apply to the skin around the wound, not inside the wound itself. Also suitable for sterilizing objects and to prevent infections with piercings.
Pros: Colorless fabric that does not stain and can also be used by pregnant women. It is a good alternative for people who are sensitive to iodine.
Cons: A painful, stinging sensation upon application and the risk of skin irritation with prolonged use.
Hansaplast plaster spray
Price: €5.99 via Bol.com
Active ingredient: i.a. a small amount of alcohol.
Use: This spray applies a plaster layer over the wound and is suitable for smaller abrasions.
Pros: Easy to apply due to the spray function, odorless and colorless and will wear off on its own.
Cons: Not intended as a disinfectant for larger wounds or injuries with a higher risk of inflammation. Despite the claim on the packaging, the spray sometimes stings when applied.
Savett wound cleansing wipes
Price: €9.95 Refill, €6.95 via Evac.nl
Active ingredient: Sterile physiological saline.
Use: The wipes are individually packed in the dispenser. They are meant to quickly clean a wound.
Pros: Ready to use, you do not need cotton wool and a separate liquid, does not stain and no side effects
Cons: The wipes come in a dispenser that can only be opened with the supplied key.
Tea tree oil
Price: €1.99 at Kruidvat
Active ingredient: Extract of the leaves of the native Australian plant Melaleuca Alternifolia. The Aborigines have used this extract for centuries by rubbing the leaves over the skin when it is irritated or damaged.
Use: Drip the oil over the affected area.
Pros: There seems to be an antiseptic effect, does not stain or sting.
Cons: Tea tree oil is used for many purposes and a lot of research has already been done, but the medical effect has not yet been scientifically proven.
Betadine disinfection patches
Price:€3 (20 pieces) via Bol.com
Active ingredient: Povidone Iodine.
Use: Clean the wound with water, let it dry for a while and stick the plaster over it. Change at least once a day.
Pros: Easy to use, disinfection and plaster in one and the plasters are packed per piece.
Cons: Not suitable for newborn babies, people with thyroid disorders and/or hypersensitivity to iodine.
