It is commonly used in disinfectants antiseptics and cleaning agents. It also finds application in fabric softeners hair conditioners and as a phase-transfer catalyst in chemical processes.

The main purpose of this compound is to provide antimicrobial action and surface-active properties. It helps in killing or inhibiting microorganisms and improves cleaning conditioning and emulsifying performance.

Benzylcetyldimethylammonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts making it a cationic surfactant. It typically appears as a white solid or viscous liquid and is soluble in water.