If you’ve ever used Lysol to clean your home, you know that it has a distinct smell. Some people may find the scent pleasant, while others find it overpowering and unpleasant. The smell comes from the chemicals used in Lysol’s formula, specifically the active ingredient known as alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinate.
It’s a mouthful to say, but this ingredient is what kills bacteria and viruses on your surfaces. While Lysol can be effective in killing germs, its strong odor can linger long after you’ve finished cleaning.
This can be especially troublesome if someone in your household is sensitive to strong smells or has allergies. In addition, some people simply don’t like the smell and prefer a more subtle scent for their home.
The purpose of this article is to provide tips on how to get rid of Lysol smell in your home. Whether you’re looking for a more natural alternative or just want to tone down the scent of traditional Lysol products, we’ve got you covered with a variety of solutions.
Why Getting Rid of Lysol Smell Matters?
Aside from personal preference, there are some practical reasons why getting rid of Lysol smell might be necessary. For example, if you’re planning on having guests over and don’t want them to be put off by the strong scent, neutralizing the odor can make your home more welcoming. Another reason why getting rid of Lysol smell matters is that it can actually affect your health if you’re exposed to too much of it.
Studies have found that prolonged exposure to certain chemicals found in cleaning products (including those used in Lysol) can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. So even if you don’t mind the smell yourself, taking steps to minimize it can be a smart move for your overall health and well-being.
The Challenges of Dealing with Lysol Smell
One of the challenges of dealing with Lysol smell is that it’s not always easy to pinpoint where the smell is coming from. If you’ve used Lysol spray in multiple rooms, for example, it may be difficult to determine which room the smell is strongest in.
Another challenge is that traditional air fresheners or sprays may not be effective in masking or eliminating Lysol odor. Some people even find that using more traditional air fresheners only makes the situation worse by adding another layer of scent on top of the existing odors.
Some people may not want to use harsh chemicals or synthetic air fresheners in their home due to concerns about their impact on the environment or their own health. This can make finding a solution to Lysol smell even more challenging for these individuals.
Ventilation is Key
Have you recently sprayed Lysol in your home, only to be left with a lingering odor? Fear not! The solution to this problem is simpler than you may think – ventilation.
Open Windows and Doors to Allow Fresh Air In
The first step in getting rid of Lysol smell is to open your windows and doors. This will allow fresh air into your home, which will help circulate the Lysol fumes out. If you have screens on your windows, make sure they are clean so that air can flow through unimpeded.
If weather permits, leave the windows open for at least an hour or until the smell diminishes. If you’re worried about bugs or other unwanted critters entering your home through open windows and doors, consider using screen doors or installing window screens if you don’t already have them.
Use Fans or Air Purifiers to Circulate Air
In addition to opening windows and doors, using fans or air purifiers can also help circulate the air in your home and get rid of Lysol smell more quickly. Fans can be placed strategically around the room where Lysol was sprayed (such as near a window) to help move stale air out and fresh air in. Air purifiers work by removing particles from the air, including those that cause odors such as Lysol.
If you have an air purifier, turn it on and let it run for several hours after spraying with Lysol. This will help remove any remaining odors.
Remember – ventilation is key when it comes to getting rid of Lysol smell in your home. By opening up windows and doors and using fans or air purifiers, you’ll be able to get rid of the odor in no time.
Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
One of the easiest ways to get rid of Lysol smell is to clean all surfaces thoroughly. When you’ve finished spraying, use a wet cloth or paper towel to wipe down the areas where you’ve applied Lysol.
Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and light switches. These areas are more likely to retain the smell of Lysol because they’re handled often.
Make sure you give them a thorough cleaning with a damp cloth soaked in water and mild soap. If you’re worried about the lingering smell of Lysol on your surfaces, don’t hesitate to clean them multiple times.
Often, one pass with a damp cloth isn’t enough. By repeating the cleaning process two or three times, you can rest assured that most if not all of the residual odor has been eliminated.
Use a Mixture of Water and Vinegar or Baking Soda to Neutralize the Odor
If wiping down surfaces with soap and water still doesn’t eliminate all traces of Lysol smell, try creating a natural odor-neutralizing solution using vinegar or baking soda. To use vinegar as an odor neutralizer, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto any affected surface where you’ve sprayed Lysol.
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. Baking soda can also be used as an effective odor neutralizer when mixed into a paste with water.
Apply this paste onto any affected surface where you’ve sprayed Lysol using a clean cloth or sponge before rinsing it away with warm water after 15 minutes. These household items work wonders at eliminating odors naturally without harsh chemicals that could irritate your nose and eyes.
Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Are you tired of trying to mask the Lysol smell with artificial air fresheners? Why not try using natural odor absorbers instead?
Activated charcoal, coffee grounds, and baking soda are all great options for absorbing odors naturally. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
Bowls of Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a highly absorbent substance that can help to remove Lysol smell from the air. Simply place a few bowls filled with activated charcoal around the room and let it work its magic. Activated charcoal is also great for removing other types of odors, such as cigarette smoke or pet smells.
You can find activated charcoal at your local health food store or online. Look for high-quality, food-grade activated charcoal to ensure that it is safe to use around your home.
Coffee Grounds as Natural Odor Absorbers
If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll be happy to know that coffee grounds can also be used as a natural odor absorber. Simply place bowls filled with used coffee grounds around the room and let them do their job.
Coffee grounds have a strong scent of their own, which can help to mask unpleasant odors while also absorbing them. Plus, if you’re worried about wasting coffee grounds, this is a great way to repurpose them instead of throwing them away.
Baking Soda for Removing Odors
Baking soda is another popular option for removing unwanted odors from your home. This versatile substance can be used in many different ways, including as an air freshener.
To use baking soda as an odor absorber, simply fill small bowls with it and place them around the room. The baking soda will absorb the odors, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.
In addition to using baking soda as an odor absorber, you can also sprinkle it on carpets and furniture to help remove stubborn smells. Leave it on for a few hours before vacuuming it up.
Natural odor absorbers are a great way to get rid of Lysol smell without relying on artificial air fresheners. Experiment with activated charcoal, coffee grounds, and baking soda to find the solution that works best for you. With a little bit of patience and persistence, you’ll be able to eliminate Lysol smell from your home in no time.
Try Essential Oils
If you’re looking for a more natural way to freshen up your space after using Lysol, essential oils are a great option. Not only do they provide a refreshing scent, but they also offer various health benefits.
For example, lavender oil is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, while lemon oil has antibacterial properties that can help kill germs in the air. To use essential oils in conjunction with Lysol, simply add a few drops of your favorite scent to a spray bottle filled with water.
Shake well to mix the ingredients together and then spray around the room for an instant burst of freshness. You can even use different scents for different rooms – lavender in the bedroom for a calming effect or peppermint in the kitchen for an invigorating boost.
Choosing The Right Essential Oil
While any essential oil can be used to freshen up your space, some work better than others when it comes to combating Lysol smell. Here are some popular options:
- Lavender Oil: in addition to its relaxation properties, lavender oil also helps neutralize bad odors and promotes better sleep quality.
- Lemon Oil: As mentioned earlier, lemon oil has antibacterial properties that help get rid of germs in the air. It also has an uplifting scent that can boost your mood.
- Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil is known for its respiratory benefits and helps clear up stuffy noses and sinuses. It’s great for use during cold and flu season or if you suffer from allergies.
- Mint Oil: Mint oil has a refreshing scent that can help wake you up and increase focus. It’s a great option for home offices or study spaces.
Other Tips For Using Essential Oils
When using essential oils, it’s important to remember that they’re highly concentrated and should be used with caution. Here are some additional tips:
- Always dilute your essential oil with water before spraying it around the room.
- A little goes a long way – only add a few drops of oil to your spray bottle.
- Avoid spraying directly onto furniture or fabrics as some oils can stain or damage certain materials.
- If you have pets, make sure to research the safety of each oil before use as some can be harmful to animals.
Overall, using essential oils is a great way to freshen up your space after using Lysol. Not only do they provide a pleasant scent, but they also offer various health benefits. Just make sure to choose the right oil for your needs and use them with caution to avoid any negative side effects.
Avoid Using too Much Lysol in the Future
Use Lysol Only When Necessary
We all love a clean-smelling home, but it’s essential to use Lysol only when necessary. Overuse of Lysol can lead to an overpowering smell that lingers in the air for hours and even days.
In some cases, using too much Lysol can cause headaches and respiratory problems. So, how do you determine when it’s necessary to use Lysol?
The answer is simple: only use it when you need to disinfect surfaces that are potentially contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses. For example, you may want to use it after someone in your home has been sick or if you’ve had guests over who may have brought germs into your space.
If you’re unsure whether a surface needs disinfecting, try wiping it down with soap and water first. If there is still visible dirt or grime, then use a disinfectant like Lysol.
Consider Using Alternative Cleaning Products That Are Less Harsh on the Senses
Another way to avoid the overpowering smell of Lysol is by considering alternative cleaning products that are less harsh on the senses. There are plenty of natural cleaning products on the market that are just as effective as traditional chemical-based cleaners but don’t have an overwhelming scent.
For example, vinegar and baking soda can be used for cleaning and deodorizing surfaces around your home. Essential oils like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil also have natural antibacterial properties and can be added to homemade cleaners for an extra boost of freshness.
When shopping for cleaning products, look for those with “fragrance-free” or “unscented” labels. These products will still clean effectively but won’t leave behind a strong scent that could trigger respiratory issues or migraines.
Don’t Forget to Dilute Lysol
If you do choose to use Lysol, it’s important to remember that it should always be diluted according to the instructions on the label. Using undiluted Lysol can lead to an overpowering smell that lingers in your home for hours or even days. To dilute Lysol, simply mix it with water according to the instructions on the label.
This will ensure that it is effective at killing germs but won’t leave behind a strong scent. And always make sure you’re using Lysol in a well-ventilated area to avoid respiratory issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Do After Inhaling Too Much Lysol?
If you have inhaled too much Lysol or any other cleaning product, immediately remove yourself from the area and go outside for fresh air. If symptoms worsen or persist, seek medical attention promptly.
How Do You Get Rid of The Smell of Disinfectant Spray?
To get rid of the smell of disinfectant spray, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. Use natural odor absorbers like baking soda or activated charcoal to help neutralize the scent. Cleaning surfaces with a mixture of water and vinegar can also help eliminate the lingering smell.
How Do You Get Lysol Smell Out of Plastic?
To remove the Lysol smell from plastic, wash the plastic item with mild soap and water. You can also try using a mixture of water and vinegar or baking soda to neutralize the odor. Allow the plastic to air dry thoroughly, preferably in a well-ventilated area.
Is Lysol Okay to Smell?
While it is generally safe to smell Lysol in small amounts, prolonged or excessive exposure to the scent can be irritating to the respiratory system. It is best to use cleaning products in well-ventilated areas and avoid prolonged inhalation of strong odors.
How Do You Recover from Inhaling Cleaning Chemicals?
If you have inhaled cleaning chemicals and experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or chest pain, move to fresh air immediately. If symptoms are severe or persist, seek medical attention. Follow the advice and treatment provided by medical professionals for a proper recovery.
How Long Does It Take for Lysol To Dry?
The drying time for Lysol can vary depending on factors such as the amount applied and the surface it is sprayed on. In general, it takes approximately 10-15 minutes for Lysol to air dry. However, it is advisable to read the product label for specific instructions regarding drying times.
Final Thoughts
To effectively get rid of Lysol smell, prioritize ventilation by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air in. Consider using fans or air purifiers to enhance air circulation.
Thoroughly clean surfaces with a mixture of water and vinegar or baking soda to neutralize the odor. Utilize natural odor absorbers like activated charcoal, coffee grounds, or baking soda to further reduce the Lysol smell. Remember to use cleaning products like Lysol sparingly and explore alternative options that are gentler on your senses and the environment. With these steps, you can create a pleasant and chemical-free space.
