Antiseptics and disinfectants are the chemicals which either kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms. Antiseptics are applied to the living tissues such as wounds, cuts, ulcers and diseased skin surfaces. Examples are furacine, soframicine, etc.These are not ingested like antibiotics. On the other hand, disinfectants are applied to inanimate objects such as floors, drainage system, instruments, etc.
Same substances can act as an antiseptic as well as disinfectant by varying the concentration. For example, 0.2% solution of phenol is an antiseptic while its 1% solution is disinfectant.