A use in a medical device of at least one salt of organic acid(s), and preferably a benzoate or a sorbate, as an antimicrobial agent is disclosed, and in particular for the manufacturing of an antimicrobial coating for a medical device, e.g., hydrophyllic urinary catheters, for the prevention of bacterial infection. The pH of the hydrophilic coating may be controlled to be in the range 4.0-8.0, preferably in the range 5.0-6.0, and preferably to be below 7.0. The pH of the hydrophilic coating could be controlled by means of a pH buffer, and preferably a citrate or phosphate buffer. A salt of organic acid in combination with a pH buffer has proven surprisingly efficient for inhibition of bacterial growth, and for prevention of bacterial infections.