The present invention relates to a method for disinfection involving an antimicrobial composition, an antimicrobial composition suitable for use in such a method and antimicrobial compounds. It particularly relates to an antimicrobial composition for personal cleaning, oral care or hard surface cleaning applications. It was found that compositions comprising selected substituted phenols and a carrier provide antimicrobial action. In a preferred aspect the compositions of the invention also comprise 1 to 80 %-wt of surfactant.