[Review] Efil – New Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Viral Disinfectant brand from Japan with 24-hour effectiveness

With Covid-19 becoming endemic, disinfection has become an even more important part of our lives and an essential step in safeguarding our health and well-being. In response to this new norm, Taiho Pharma Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of Taiho Pharmaceutical, a Japanese pharmaceutical company that researches and develops innovative medicines for the treatment of cancer, has launched Efil, its first-ever consumer household disinfectant product in Singapore this September. This release marks Efil’s inaugural launch outside of Japan.

Designed to disinfect and kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, said to include SARS-CoV-2, within seconds, Efil also claim to provide 24-hour protection against bacteria and viruses.

Formulated using an original technology which combines the primary ingredient ethanol with silver and zinc ions, Efil claims to provide a germ-isolating barrier that keeps the bacteria and viruses at bay. The fast-acting effect of ethanol eradicates the microbes, while the silver and zinc ions maintain the anti-viral and anti-bacterial effect for 24 hours, continuing to kill germs throughout the day. The product is also anti-mold and can be used as a deodoriser.

Made in Japan, Efil comes available in two sizes, a 300ml disinfectant spray bottle suitable for households (S$24.90) and a 50ml travel-friendly spray bottle (S$13.50).

Bacteria and viruses are not just found in homes; they are often brought back to our living spaces from the outside environment. By starting a good habit of sanitising clothes, bags and face masks with Efil before heading out, users can ensure 24 hours protection against bacteria and viruses when outdoors, especially at high-contact areas such as a crowded train or malls.

Efil is also designed to clean and disinfect high-touch areas in homes and spaces, and is safe to use on surfaces such as doorknobs and handrails, toilets, switches, floors, walls and more. Furthermore, with working from home becoming more prevalent, Efil comes in handy for daily disinfection of frequently touched surfaces as work desks, computer monitors, mouse, keyboards, smart phones and other electronic devices. By having Efil equipped in cars, drivers can also embark on a daily routine to sanitise door handles, steering wheel, switchgears, infotainment interface (and even the often-neglected seat belt buckles) to ensure a safer commute for everyone.

Developed with a fresh aqua scent, Efil is free of any unpleasant ethanol or chlorinated scent and delivers a germ-eliminating and deodorising effect for carpets, bedding mattresses, towels and more. It is also effective in cleaning kids’ items such as baby carriers, strollers, blankets, play mats, and toys that children sleep or play with. Parents are encouraged to sanitise their electronic devices with Efil before handing them to children to play, to minimise any accidental transmissions of harmful elements.

We tried it and found the product to be easy-to-use and pleasantly scented with a very light scent. With regards to the claim on the 24-hour protection, that would be hard to verify, but Efil products would still make sense for those who want an added peace of mind with something to sanitise all the stuff that you bring outdoor or indoor stuff that are high-touch points.

Efil products are available online via Lazada and Shopee.