Povidone-iodine is one of the widely used broad spectrum antiseptic disinfectant in the world. Povidone-iodine is effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In contrast to chlorhexidine, povidone-iodine has a shorter protective effect against bacterial buildup on the skin after hand washing and seems to be less effective than these agents for that purpose. Povidone-iodine exhibits longer lasting antiseptic effects due to its slow absorption via soft tissue, making it the choice for longer surgeries. It is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines and it is available over the counter.