Where it all began…
1924 - Our story begins
Pharmacist Dr. Kurt Bode founded the first production factory in Hamburg. The company quickly became a pioneer in the field of disinfection and modern hand hygiene, with it’s very first product, a phenolic soap preparation
1965 - Sterillium© is born
Under the guidance of Hamburg-based heart surgeon Peter Kalmár, we developed the world’s first alcohol-based hand disinfectant: Sterillium®. This innovation was revolutionary as, for the first time, there now existed a product that provided unmatched disinfecting efficacy, without harmful sensitizing or drying and damaging effects to the skin.
2003 - We become dye and fragrance free
Taking allergies and sensitivities under consideration, Sterillium© classic pure is launched, becoming one of the first fragrance and dye free surgical hand preps in Europe.
2005 - Dipping our toe across the Atlantic
Through an exclusive partnership with one of the largest global medical suppliers, Sterillium© classic pure is first introduced to the US market as Sterillium© rub ff, providing quick and persistent microbial kill without the use of CHG; quickly gaining popularity and renown.
2009 - New Ownership
Bode Chemie GmbH joins the Hartmann group by becoming a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of Paul Hartmann AG
2011 - The pursuit of excellence - The HSC
The Hartmann Science Center (HSC) is founded with the goal of focusing on research, development and innovation in the field of infection prevention.
2025 - Hello USA!
