Which type of spores are not killed by disinfectants?

Bacterial spores are known for their remarkable resistance to various environmental stressors, including disinfectants. This resistance is primarily due to the thick protective coat that surrounds bacterial spores, allowing them to survive extreme temperatures, drying, radiation, and chemical exposure. When disinfectants are applied, they may effectively kill active bacterial cells, but the resilient spores can withstand these agents and remain dormant until conditions are favorable for them to germinate and grow.

This resistance makes bacterial spores a significant concern in settings that require high levels of sanitation, such as medical and esthetic practices. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for implementing effective infection control protocols, as simply relying on routine disinfectants may not be sufficient to eliminate the potential hazard posed by bacterial spores.