Lysol vs. Germs: Does It Really Kill Mold, Bed Bugs, and More?
Have you ever wondered whether Lysol really kills mold, bed bugs, or hard viruses such as norovirus? Many people use it to disinfect their homes, but does it kill all kinds of germs and pests?
Mold grows in wet places, bed bugs are concealed in mattresses, and viruses remain on surfaces for days. With all the cleaning products available, it’s difficult to know which one really gets the job done. Some claim Lysol is a strong disinfectant, but others doubt its efficacy.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what Lysol can and can’t kill. We will also compare it to bleach and explore the best ways to use it for a cleaner, germ-free home.
How Effective Is Lysol Against Common Germs?
Lysol has gained popularity as a disinfectant, but can it effectively eliminate mold, bed bugs, norovirus, lice, and fleas? Let’s find out.

Does Lysol Kill Mold?
Lysol effectively eliminates mold from hard surfaces including bathroom tiles alongside kitchen countertops. Lysol fails to reach and kill mold that has established itself extensively in wall structures or under carpets or wooden material. You might require alternative heavy-duty mold removal techniques or professional assistance at this stage.
Does Lysol Kill Bed Bugs?
Spraying bed bugs with Lysol will result in the death of certain insects but not all of them. Bed bugs conceal themselves within deep mattress and furniture spaces that Lysol spray cannot penetrate. The most effective method for complete bed bug removal involves hiring a professional exterminator along with employing heat treatment procedures.
Does Lysol Kill Lice?
Lysol is not an effective tool for lice removal. It can kill a few on surfaces, but it will not touch lice in hair or on bedding. The best way to treat an infestation is to wash bedding and clothes in hot water and shampoo with a lice treatment shampoo.
Does Lysol Kill Fleas?
Direct application of Lysol effectively kills fleas but the product fails to eliminate infestations. Fleas use carpets and pet hair along with bedding to lay their eggs yet Lysol is unable to destroy those eggs. Getting rid of fleas requires persistent usage of effective flea treatments along with thorough surface cleanings.
Using Lysol in Your Home: Safe or Not?
Lysol works well as a disinfection agent, yet it remains uncertain whether it poses any safety risks when applied to soft surfaces, including mattresses and carpets. Here’s what you should know.
Is Lysol Safe for Application on Your Mattresses?
Spraying your mattress with Lysol is safe to do but you must take necessary caution. Before mattress use ensure the surface is completely dry because sleeping on moist fabric could lead to discomfort. A soft mist of Lysol solution will suffice for proper disinfection. People with sensitive skin along with allergy sufferers, must conduct a safe test on a tiny part of the surface first.

Can Lysol Be Used on Upholstery and Carpets?
The application of Lysol on couches, rugs, and carpets succeeds in surface cleaning but might fail to remove intense stains and unwanted odors. Before use, it is necessary to test a hidden section to verify that the fabric stays color-free. The treated area needs complete dryness before anyone uses it for sitting or walking on it.
Cleaning and Sanitizing Tricks
It is necessary to have your clothes and house germ-free. Here is how to employ Lysol Laundry Sanitizer and how it differs from using bleach.
How Do You Utilize Lysol Laundry Sanitizer?
Lysol Laundry Sanitizer prevents bacteria and viruses from killing your clothes, especially when washing your clothes in cold water. Below is how you can use it:
- Add Detergent First: Wash the clothes as normally with detergent.
- Pour Lysol Laundry Sanitizer: Add it to the fabric softener tray or directly into the rinse.
- Use the Right Amount: Refer to the label for the correct dosage for your load size.
- Let the Cycle Finish: No additional rinse is necessary—your clothes will be clean and sanitized.
Lysol vs. Bleach: Which One Kills More Germs?
Both Lysol and bleach are strong disinfectants, but they work differently. Here’s a quick comparison:
Feature | Lysol | Bleach |
Kills | Viruses & bacteria on most surfaces & fabrics | Strong against germs, mold, & tough stains |
Best for | Everyday cleaning, disinfecting fabrics | Heavy-duty cleaning, mold removal |
Fabric Safety | Safe for colors & upholstery | Can discolor or damage the fabric |
When to Use | Regular disinfection, laundry sanitization | Deep cleaning, bathroom & kitchen disinfection |
Conclusion
In summary, Lysol is a strong disinfectant that can efficiently eliminate common germs, viruses such as norovirus, and certain pests such as fleas and lice. It is not, however, a solution to hard issues such as mold infestation or bed bugs.
For general cleaning and maintenance of fabric, Lysol is ideal, but for tough problems, other techniques or the services of a professional may be required. Bleach is more suitable for thorough cleaning and removal of mold. By using the appropriate product for the task, you can keep your home cleaner and healthier.
Warehouse Locations
- Albany, NY
- Atlanta, GA
- Baltimore, MD
- Birmingham, AL
- Boston, MA
- Charlotte, NC
- Chicago, IL
- Cincinnati, OH
- Columbus, OH
- Cleveland, OH
- Cranbury, NJ
- Dallas, TX
- Denver, CO
- Detroit, MI
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Grand Rapids, MI
- Harrisburg, PA
- Houston, TX
- Indianapolis, IN
- Jacksonville, FL
- Kansas City, MO
- Los Angeles, CA
- Memphis, TN
- Miami, FL
- Minneapolis, MN
- Nashville, TN
- New Orleans, LA
- New York, NY
- Orlando, FL
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- Pittsburgh, PA