Objective To investigate whether commonly used disinfectants cause skin irritation reactions in laboratory animals and personnel. Methods The following disinfectants were used in this experiment: 2% peracetic acid, 0.2% peracetic acid, 0.2% sodium hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldeldehyde. After short-term contact with the skin of guinea pigs (spot), the irritation reactions were evaluated. Results 2% glutaraldeldehyde solution caused slight skin erythema and edema, vanished after 1 hour, and a yellowish brown coloration was left. Other several kind of disinfectants did not lead to apparent skin irritation reactions in the guinea pigs. Conclusions 2% glutaraldehhyde solution may cause slight skin irritation reaction and yellowish brown coloration in both experimental animal and may be harmful to personnel.