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Disinfectant Sprays

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Disinfectant Sprays

Clean versus sanitized—there's a difference. We compared disinfectant sprays from Lysol classics to botanical alternatives—finding what kills germs and what just smells like it does.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Disinfectant Spray

Lysol

Disinfectant Spray

4.7 (89,012 reviews)

The standard for a reason. EPA-registered kill claims mean they're verified.

Kill claim

99.9% germs

Format

Aerosol

Dwell time

10 minutes

EPA registered

Yes

Pros

  • EPA registered
  • Kills 99.9% bacteria/viruses
  • Eliminates odors

Cons

  • Aerosol concerns
  • Strong scent
  • Requires dwell time

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Disinfectant Spray
Disinfectant Spray Best
Lysol
4.7
$7 View
Disinfecting Mist
Disinfecting Mist Value
Clorox
4.5
$6 View
Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner
Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner
Seventh Generation
4.3
$6 View
24 Hour Sanitizing Spray
24 Hour Sanitizing Spray
Microban
4.4
$5 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Disinfectant Spray

Lysol

Disinfectant Spray

4.7 (89,012 reviews)

The standard for a reason. EPA-registered kill claims mean they're verified.

Kill claim

99.9% germs

Format

Aerosol

Dwell time

10 minutes

EPA registered

Yes

Pros

  • EPA registered
  • Kills 99.9% bacteria/viruses
  • Eliminates odors

Cons

  • Aerosol concerns
  • Strong scent
  • Requires dwell time
Best Value
Disinfecting Mist

Clorox

Disinfecting Mist

4.5 (34,567 reviews)

The touchless option—spray and let air dry.

Method

Spray and walk away

Kill claims

Cold, flu, COVID-19

Surfaces

Hard and soft

Format

Aerosol mist

Pros

  • No wiping required
  • Kills cold and flu viruses
  • Safe on soft surfaces

Cons

  • Wet surfaces briefly
  • Scent options limited
  • Aerosol format
Premium Pick
Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner

Seventh Generation

Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner

4.3 (12,345 reviews)

Disinfection from plants. Thymol (from thyme) is EPA-registered.

Active

Thymol (thyme oil)

EPA

Registered

Dwell

10 minutes

Certification

EPA Safer Choice

Pros

  • Botanical disinfectant
  • No harsh chemical smell
  • EPA registered

Cons

  • Longer dwell time
  • Fewer kill claims
  • Plant smell some dislike
Budget Pick
24 Hour Sanitizing Spray

Microban

24 Hour Sanitizing Spray

4.4 (45,678 reviews)

Claims 24-hour antibacterial protection when used correctly.

Protection

24 hours (antibacterial)

Format

Trigger spray

Kill claim

99.9% bacteria

Safe on

Most hard surfaces

Pros

  • 24-hour protection claim
  • Prevents bacterial growth
  • Multi-surface

Cons

  • Claims require proper use
  • Scent strong
  • Trigger spray vs aerosol

Buying Guide: How to Choose Disinfectant Sprays

Disinfectant Sprays: Kill Claims That Matter

Spraying and immediately wiping does almost nothing. Disinfectants need contact time (usually 2-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions About Disinfectant Sprays

Do I need to disinfect every day?

No. Daily disinfection is unnecessary for most homes. Disinfect when someone is sick.

Is spray and wipe immediately effective?

Barely. Disinfectants need dwell time—usually 2-10 minutes. Read labels.

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