You’re probably wondering if you can use Lysol wipes on leather. The answer is yes… and no. It depends on the type of leather that you have and the condition of the surface. In this epic guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about using Lysol wipes on leather. We’ll cover why it might be a good or bad idea, the types of leather that are safe to use them on, and how to properly clean your leather surfaces!
What are Lysol Wipes?
But can they be used on leather? [1]
Main Ingredients in Lysol Wipes
It’s important to know what ingredients are in Lysol wipes before you can determine whether or not it is safe to use them on leather furniture and other items. The active ingredients in Lysol wipes vary, but they commonly include:
Ethanol
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol, is a clear liquid with a distinct odor. It is produced by the fermentation of sugars and starches and is found in many products including beer, wine, hand sanitizers, household cleaners, and Lysol wipes. Ethanol has a variety of uses, from solvents to fuel for cars and recreational vehicles to cleaning products and disinfectants like Lysol wipes.
When used as a disinfectant, ethanol can kill bacteria, fungi, viruses, and spores on surfaces — making it a great choice for cleaning and disinfecting. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this type of alcohol does evaporate quickly so you may need to reapply it after wiping down your leather item if you want to ensure it remains disinfected.
Alkyl
Alkyl is an organic compound, which means it contains a combination of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It is also an alcohol-based ingredient typically used in cleaning products.
Due to its surfactant nature, alkyl can help loosen dirt, dust, grime, and other debris from leather items before they’re wiped down with Lysol wipes. However, this type of alcohol may also strip away some of the natural oils found in leather so it should not be used too frequently or on delicate types of leather furniture.
Water
Water is the main ingredient in most Lysol wipes and is typically added to help dilute other active ingredients. It also helps to add moisture to leather items, which can be helpful when cleaning and disinfecting them.
When used with other active ingredients, water helps ensure that all of the bacteria present on a surface is killed even if it has formed a protective film over itself. That being said, too much water can damage leather items so it’s important not to saturate the material with Lysol wipes when trying to clean or disinfect them. [1]
Can You Use Lysol Wipes on Leather?
So, can you use Lysol wipes on leather? We believe it’s not recommended.
Although Lysol wipes contain active ingredients that can kill bacteria and disinfect surfaces, they are not the best choice for cleaning or disinfecting leather items. Ethanol and alkyl alcohol may strip away some of the natural oils found in leather, potentially causing them to crack and become brittle over time. To back up our point, we will provide you with the pros and cons of using Lysol wipes on leather items and explain how they can affect both natural and synthetic leather. [1] [2] [3]
Benefits of Lysol Wipes
So as we mentioned we don’t recommend you use Lysol wipes on leather. But why are they so popular? Well, Lysol wipes have a few benefits that make them attractive as cleaning tools. Let’s dive deeper as to why.
They can kill the harmful bacteria
One of the main reasons why Lysol wipes are so popular is because they can kill 99.9% of harmful bacteria, including cold and flu viruses. This means that not only do you get rid of dirt and grime but also any nasty germs living on your leather furniture, making it much safer to use in homes with young children or elderly residents.
This effect is hard to replicate with other cleaning products, so it’s no wonder why Lysol wipes have become such a popular choice for many people.
They’re convenient and easy to use
Another big advantage of using Lysol wipes is that they are incredibly convenient and easy to use. All you need to do is take out one from the package, wipe down the surface you want to clean, and then discard the used wipe afterward. This makes them great for quick clean-ups or when you don’t have time to go through a more thorough cleaning process.
Moreover, since the wipes come pre-moistened, there’s no need for any additional supplies like water or soap. This means that you can get the job done faster, with less effort and mess.
And they are pretty accessible too, as you can find them in most grocery stores or online.
They easily remove lint
When it comes to using Lysol wipes on leather, they can be quite effective at removing lint. All you need to do is gently rub the surface with the wipe and then discard it once it’s done. This makes them great for quick touch-ups when your furniture starts looking a bit dull or dusty.
Still, it’s important to note that while Lysol wipes can remove lint effectively, they don’t have any conditioning or nourishing properties like some leather cleaners do. So if you’re looking for something that will help keep your leather furniture looking good in the long run, you should consider investing in a specialist leather cleaner instead.
They’re cheaper than other cleaning options
Finally, Lysol wipes are much cheaper than other cleaning options available on the market. In fact, when compared to a bottle of cleaner, you can usually buy twice as many Lysol wipes for around the same price. This makes them very economical in the long run and great for people on a budget. However, it is important to note that this doesn’t mean that they should be used instead of other cleaners every time. In some cases, these may not be powerful enough and you might need something more specialized and expensive in order to get the desired results. [1] [2] [3]
Risks of Using Lysol Wipes on Leather
Despite the benefits we mentioned above, there are also risks associated with using Lysol wipes on leather furniture. This is the section we will focus on the most, as using them can have some dire consequences.
They can’t replace deep cleaning the leather
The first disadvantage of using Lysol wipes on leather is that they cannot replace deep cleaning. Since Lysol wipes are not designed for use on leather, they will not be able to remove any dirt or grime that has been embedded into the material for a long time and will only provide a superficial clean.
This means that if your furniture has been neglected for some time and needs more than just a quick wipe-down, you should consider investing in an appropriate leather cleaner instead of risking damaging your furniture with Lysol wipes.
They can cause water spots on the leather
Another disadvantage of using Lysol wipes on leather is that they can cause water spots. Since the wipes are pre-moistened, there’s a risk that moisture will seep into the material and leave behind unsightly marks when it dries out. Yes, over time, these droplets cause the leather to harden, resulting in a visible ring or discoloration that can be difficult to remove. Water spots can be especially difficult to remove from delicate leather items like shoes, handbags, and furniture.
This is especially likely if the leather furniture was not properly treated or protected beforehand. In such cases, you should consider sealing your furniture with an appropriate waterproofing product in order to help protect it from any potential damage caused by the moisture from Lysol wipes.
They can cause odor in your leather
They can damage the leather
Lysol wipes contain chemicals that can be damaging to leather, as they will strip away its protective layer and natural oils. This is why we recommend you avoid using them as much as possible when cleaning leather furniture.
In addition, some chemicals can clog the pores of the leather, making it dry and brittle over time. This can cause the material to crack and deteriorate much quicker than it would otherwise, leading to costly repairs or replacements in the future.
You definitely don’t want your precious leather items to lose all the sheen and color, so it’s important to be very careful when using Lysol wipes on them.
The chemicals present in Lysol wipes can also cause discoloration on leather. This is especially true if the furniture is light-colored, as the wipes can leave behind an unsightly yellowish hue that is difficult to remove.
Moreover, even if the wipes don’t damage your furniture immediately, their use over time could cause it to become dull and worn out in the long run. So make sure you know what you’re dealing with before reaching for those Lysol wipes! [1] [2] [3]
Effects of Lysol Wipes on Genuine Leather
Now that we know the potential risks of using Lysol wipes on leather, let’s take a closer look at what would happen if you used them on genuine leather.
Genuine leather is much more delicate than synthetic materials, so it can easily be damaged by even the mildest of chemicals. These will rob the leather of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and cracking. Moreover, it may also discolor the material if left unchecked for too long.
For this reason, it’s best to avoid using Lysol wipes on genuine leather items altogether and instead opt for a gentle cleaner specifically designed for use on natural materials. This will help ensure your furniture stays looking good for years to come! [1]
Effects of Lysol Wipes on Fake Leather
But what about fake leather? Can you use Lysol wipes on it without any problems?
The answer is yes, but with caution. While the chemicals present in Lysol wipes won’t have as damaging an effect on faux leather as they do on genuine leather, they could still cause discoloration and dulling of the material over time.
Moreover, if you want to ensure that your fake leather furniture remains looks its best for years to come, consider applying a conditioning cream on it every few months to help protect and nourish the material. [1]
Alternatives to Lysol Wipes
If you want to clean your leather furniture but are worried about the effects of Lysol wipes, fear not! There are plenty of other cleaning methods that can help keep your furniture looking its best.
Leather cleaners
The first option is to use a leather cleaner. These are specifically designed to clean and condition leather surfaces without damaging them, so they’re a great way to keep your furniture looking its best.
Most leather cleaners come in spray or gel form, which makes them easy to apply on any surface. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before using any product and test it out on an inconspicuous area first.
Dampened cloth
If you don’t want to use any chemical cleaners, then a dampened cloth is another great option. Simply put a small amount of warm water on the cloth and gently wipe off any dirt or dust from the leather surface.
For tougher stains, you can add a tiny bit of mild detergent to the water before using it. Make sure you rinse off any residue afterward and dry the area with a soft towel for the best results. The mixture of warm water and vinegar can also be used to clean leather furniture.
Specialized leather wipes
Finally, if you don’t want to use any cleaners or water at all, then leather wipes are a great alternative. These are designed specifically for leather and come pre-moistened with cleaning agents that are safe enough to be used on delicate surfaces.
Just make sure you read the product label carefully before using it and only use one suitable for your type of leather material. Also, avoid getting the wipes overly wet and take extra care when wiping around corners and seams where dirt can get easily trapped. [4]
FAQ
What wipes can you use on leather?
When it comes to cleaning leather, there are several different types of wipes you can use. The best type of wipe to use on leather would be an all-natural-based cleaner specifically designed for leather surfaces. They are usually made with ingredients like vegetable-based soaps and natural oils that work together to clean the surface without damaging the delicate material.
It is important to avoid using alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners since they can break down the fibers in the leather over time and damage its appearance. Additionally, avoid any harsh abrasive materials such as steel wool as this could also cause damage to the finish of your items.
There are also specialized leather wipes that can be purchased at most hardware stores. These wipes are designed to clean and condition the leather without leaving behind any residue.
Do Clorox wipes ruin leather?
Clorox wipes, including Lysol wipes, should not be used on leather. The harsh chemicals found in these products could damage the leather, leaving behind marks and discolorations. Even if they do not cause any physical damage, the chemicals may alter the smell of the leather surface over time.
If you must clean your leather with disinfecting wipes, try to find ones that are specifically designed for use on leather surfaces. Some companies make special formulations of their wipes that are safe to use on leather materials. Otherwise, you should stick to gentle cleaning solutions such as mild soaps or even distilled water when cleaning your leather furniture or accessories.
What cleaning products should not be used on leather?
It’s important to remember that leather is a delicate material and not all cleaning products can be used without damaging it. Certain types of cleaners, such as those containing harsh chemicals or dyes, should never be used on leather. These cleaners can cause discoloration, fading, and cracking over time. Additionally, bleach-based products and Lysol wipes should also not be used on leather, as these substances may damage the surface of the leather or cause irreparable stains.
When in doubt about which cleaning products are safe for your leather items, it’s always best to check with the manufacturer or consult an experienced professional who specializes in leather care. Be sure to take note of any special instructions or recommendations so you can care for your leather items properly.
Do wet wipes ruin leather?
The short answer is yes, wet wipes can ruin leather if used improperly. Leather naturally contains oils that help it stay supple and prevent cracking over time. If you use a wet wipe or disinfectant on the leather, it can strip away these essential oils, leaving the leather dry and brittle, and potentially causing permanent damage.
For this reason, we only recommend using ph-neutral, non-alcohol-based wipes on leather items. Lysol wipes contain harsh chemicals like alcohol and acetone that can quickly strip away the natural oils in leather, making them a poor choice for cleaning or disinfecting leather products.
If you do want to use a wet wipe on your leather item, it’s important to first test the wipe on a hidden area of the material before using it all over. This will give you an idea of how the materials and chemicals react with each other before you potentially damage your product.
Useful Video: How and Where to Use Lysol Disinfecting Wipes
Conclusion
The last thing you want to see on your leather item is an unsightly stain and some people seek quick and easy ways to remove them. Lysol wipes have been used as a go-to cleaning solution for hard surfaces like countertops and floors but many people wonder if it is safe to use on leather items. The short answer is no – you should not use Lysol wipes on leather because they may damage the material’s protective surface coating and compromise its look, feel, and smell.
Due to their strong chemical composition, Lysol wipes can easily strip away natural oils from leather and cause it to crack or discolor. For this reason, it is important to use a leather-safe cleaning product such as saddle soap and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when caring for your leather item.
You can purchase specialized leather cleaning wipes and conditioners, and it is recommended to use them every three to four months to help keep the material looking its best. If you accidentally get a stain on your leather item, you should spot-clean it by dabbing the area with a damp cloth or sponge.
With a little extra effort, you can keep your leather looking great while protecting its original condition without having to worry about any potential damage caused by Lysol wipes. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your leather looks beautiful for years to come. Thanks for reading! If you have questions or comments about how to use Lysol Wipes on Leather, please leave them in the comment section below – we’re here to help! Happy cleaning!
References:
- https://leatherial.com/can-you-use-lysol-wipes-on-leather/
- https://leatherninja.com/can-you-use-clorox-wipes-on-leather/
- https://favoredleather.com/can-you-use-disinfectant-wipes-on-leather/
- https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/how-to-clean-and-protect-leather
