Abstract

Concerning Disinfectants

The importance of cleanliness, both personal and civic, of temperance and tranquility in resisting disease, is known and acknowledged, while the bad effects of fifth, intemperance, excessive fatigue, and mental depression are equally well ascertained. The word cleanliness, in particular, here covers a wide ground. Holding fast the while to the dictates of common sense, every man and every citizen would do well to consider carefully the full meaning of the term. Cleanliness, once wisely comprehended, should be sought after assiduously and practiced conscientiously, at whatever cost of time, trouble, or money. If the practice of cleanliness could but be carried to its highest term; if all actual filth were immediately wished away from houses; if all prospective or potential filth were immediately carted away; and if, thanks to some efficient system of ventilation, all foul, vitiated, or spent airs were removed at the instant of their formation, there would be comparatively little need of disinfectants taking the word in its ordinary sense.