Iodine compounds are available as iodophors, which are combinations of elemental iodine and a substance that makes the iodine soluble in water. Iodophors are effective against bacteria, fungi, and many viruses. In hatcheries, iodine is used on equipment and walls and for water disinfection. Iodine is the least toxic of the disinfectants discussed here, but it can stain clothing and some surfaces. Chlorine compounds are good disinfectants on clean surfaces, but they do not work well on dirty surfaces.
Chlorine is effective against bacteria and many viruses.
These compounds are also much more active in warm water than in cold water. Chlorine solutions are somewhat irritating to skin and are corrosive to metal. They are relatively inexpensive. Quaternary Ammonium . Quaternary ammonium compounds are generally odorless, colorless, non-irritating, and deodorizing.