The paper aims to overview the preparation methods and antibacterial properties of imidazolium salt and its complex, and to discuss the packaging application value of imidazolium salt and its compound in many fields. The synthesis methods and antibacterial mechanisms of onium salt and its compounds are summarized by describing the factors affecting their preparation and antibacterial properties. It is found that temperature has the greatest influence on the preparation of imidazolium salt, and the alkyl chain length has the most significant effect on the antibacterial properties of imidazolium salt. Imidazolium salt and its compounds have long-lasting antibacterial properties, excellent thermal stability, and environmental protection. They can make up for the shortcomings of traditional antibacterial agents and have great application prospects in the field of coating packaging, antibacterial medicine packaging, food packaging, etc.