Lysol is a common household disinfectant, widely used to eliminate germs and promote a healthier indoor environment. Its various products are formulated to address diverse cleaning and disinfecting needs across different surfaces.
How Lysol Works
Lysol products contain active ingredients that target microorganisms, rendering them inactive or destroying them. Many Lysol formulations utilize quaternary ammonium compounds, often referred to as quats, such as alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinate or benzalkonium chloride. These compounds work by disrupting the outer membranes of bacteria and the protective coats of viruses, which are essential for their survival. This disruption causes cellular contents to leak, leading to microbial death.
Some Lysol products also incorporate alcohols like ethanol or isopropanol. These alcohols denature proteins within microbial cells and dissolve their lipid membranes. This process causes the cell to lose structural integrity, dehydrate, and ultimately cease functioning. The effectiveness of alcohol-based disinfectants is often optimal at concentrations between 60% and 90%, with around 70% generally considered most effective for surface disinfection.
Germs Targeted by Lysol
Lysol is effective against a broad spectrum of common household microorganisms. It targets various bacteria, including Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Staphylococcus aureus. The product also inactivates many viruses, such as influenza, rhinoviruses that cause the common cold, norovirus (which can cause stomach flu), and SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
Lysol also works against fungi, such as mold and mildew, often found in damp areas of the home. Some formulations specifically claim efficacy against athlete’s foot fungus (Trichophyton mentagrophytes). Lysol products typically state they kill 99.9% of specified viruses, bacteria, and fungi on surfaces when used as directed.
Everyday Applications
Lysol products are used throughout the home to reduce germ spread. They are applied to hard, non-porous surfaces in high-traffic areas, including kitchen countertops, sinks, appliances, and bathroom fixtures like toilets, showers, and faucets.
Lysol is also used on frequently touched items such as door handles, light switches, and garbage cans. Specific products are available for soft surfaces like upholstery, mattresses, and pet beds, to disinfect and eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Some Lysol products are also aerosol sprays that can sanitize the air.
Safe Handling and Storage
For user safety, proper handling and storage of Lysol products are essential. Always read the product label thoroughly, as instructions and warnings vary between formulations. Ensure adequate ventilation to minimize vapor inhalation. Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes; if contact occurs, rinse with water. Keep Lysol out of reach of children and pets, as it is not for ingestion.
Store Lysol in its original container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, or open flames. Never mix Lysol with other cleaning products, especially bleach, as this can create toxic gases like chloramine or chlorine, causing severe respiratory irritation.