[1] Benzethonium chloride exhibits a broad spectrum of microbiocidal activity against bacteria, fungi, mold, and viruses.

[citation needed] The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifies that the safe and effective concentrations for benzethonium chloride are 0.1-0.2% in first aid products.

This test is used in commercial and industrial water treatment, where polyacrylates, polymaleates, and sulfonated polymers are commonly employed as dispersants.

Some data has suggested that long-term exposure to antibacterial ingredients could contribute to bacterial resistance or hormonal effects.

In September 2016, the Food and Drug Administration issued a ban on nineteen consumer antiseptic wash ingredients.