Sodium pentachlorophenate is a white or tan, powdered solid. It is soluble in water and may burn, but it is not easily ignited. It may be toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. It is used as a fungicide, herbicide and as a disinfectant.

SPCP has been used as a herbicide, insecticide, fungicide, algaecide, and disinfectant and as an ingredient in antifouling paint. Some applications were in agricultural seeds (for nonfood uses), leather, masonry, wood preservation, cooling-tower water, rope, and paper. Its use has declined due to its high toxicity and slow biodegradation.