Is Dettol a British brand?

Yes. Dettol originated in the United Kingdom and was launched there in 1933. The brand was developed by Reckitt & Sons in Hull.

Who makes Dettol products?

Dettol products are made and marketed within the Reckitt group. The ultimate owner is Reckitt Benckiser Group plc.

What was Dettol originally used for?

Dettol was originally developed as an antiseptic liquid for use by doctors in hospitals. It later expanded into household and personal hygiene products.

Is Dettol the same company as Reckitt?

No. Dettol is a brand, while Reckitt Benckiser Group plc is the publicly listed company that ultimately owns it. Reckitt also owns other consumer health and hygiene brands.

Who owns Dettol?

Dettol

Ultimate ownerUnited KingdomReckitt Benckiser Group plc

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Brand origin: United Kingdom
Main production: Several countries, incl. United Kingdom

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About Dettol

What is Dettol?

Dettol is a hygiene brand founded around antiseptic and germ protection products. Dettol began as a medical antiseptic and later expanded into household and personal hygiene products. Reckitt describes Dettol as a global portfolio with more than 200 germ-kill products across 13 product categories.

Who owns Dettol?

Dettol is ultimately owned by Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, according to Made O'Meter's ownership data verified on 13 September 2026. Reckitt Benckiser Group plc is a publicly listed company headquartered in the United Kingdom. Reckitt's portfolio also includes brands such as Durex, Finish, Gaviscon, Harpic, Lysol, Nurofen, Strepsils, Vanish and Veet.

Where does Dettol come from?

Dettol originated in the United Kingdom and was launched in 1933. Dr William Colebrook Reynolds developed Dettol after joining Reckitt & Sons in Hull, East Yorkshire, in 1929. Dettol was first used in hospitals and was introduced as an antiseptic liquid for doctors. Dettol later became available through pharmacies and general retail, including British grocery stores from 1958. Dettol expanded internationally during the 1930s, reaching markets including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Canada and South America.

What products does Dettol make?

Dettol makes antiseptic liquids, handwash, body wash, soaps, surface disinfectants, laundry sanitiser and washing machine cleaners. Dettol also sells products for personal care, household cleaning and germ protection. Named product ranges include Dettol Activ-Botany and Dettol Antiseptic Liquid.

Frequently asked questions about Dettol

Is Dettol a British brand?: Yes. Dettol originated in the United Kingdom and was launched there in 1933. The brand was developed by Reckitt & Sons in Hull.
Who makes Dettol products?: Dettol products are made and marketed within the Reckitt group. The ultimate owner is Reckitt Benckiser Group plc.
What was Dettol originally used for?: Dettol was originally developed as an antiseptic liquid for use by doctors in hospitals. It later expanded into household and personal hygiene products.
What types of products does Dettol sell?: Dettol sells antiseptic liquids, handwash, soaps, body wash, surface disinfectants, laundry sanitiser and washing machine cleaners. Its products cover personal care, household cleaning and germ protection.
Is Dettol the same company as Reckitt?: No. Dettol is a brand, while Reckitt Benckiser Group plc is the publicly listed company that ultimately owns it. Reckitt also owns other consumer health and hygiene brands.

Sources: reckitt.com: latest annual report, dettol.co.uk, reckitt.com: our history, eu-assets.contentstack.com: Strategic Report 2025.pdf, eu-assets.contentstack.com: Chief Executive Statement 2025.pdf, reckitt.com: dettol under the microscope, reckitt.com: dettol, reckitt.com: dettol a legacy of global impact