Lysol and Clorox wipes are the go-to cleaning sidekicks in almost every home. They’re quick, convenient, and promise to kill 99.9% of germs with just a swipe.

But once you start using them regularly, you’ll notice they’re not exactly the same.

One stays wetter longer, one smells softer, and one handles sticky messes a bit better.

So which one actually deserves a spot under your sink?

In this post, I’ll compare Lysol vs Clorox Wipes on the same kinds of messes most of us deal with every day, and show how both stack up.

#1 Main Active Ingredients

Both Lysol and Clorox Wipes are powered by quaternary ammonium compounds (known as “quats”), which are basically chemical germ killers.

Lysol uses a mix of benzalkonium chloride compounds for their wipes.

Clorox also uses a similar set of quats but without any bleach. That’s right, Clorox wipes don’t actually contain bleach, even though the brand is famous for it.

So when you’re using either one, you’re not bleaching surfaces. You’re disinfecting them through quats, which attack germs by breaking down their cell walls. The result? Dead bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Also Read: Can You Mix Clorox And Lysol?

#2 Germ-Killing Power

This is the part that really matters.

Both Clorox and Lysol wipes are EPA-approved to kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, including nasty ones like E. coli, Salmonella, and Influenza A.

I tested both on kitchen counters, door handles, and my phone screen (gross, I know).

They both did a solid job. Surfaces felt clean and residue-free afterward. Lysol’s wipe stayed wet a little longer, which is actually a good thing because you need the surface to stay visibly wet for about four minutes to fully disinfect.

Clorox dried a bit quicker, which can make it easier to use if you’re in a hurry, but it might slightly reduce germ-killing time if you don’t wipe slowly.

Honestly, when it comes to disinfection, they’re neck and neck. Both brands have earned their reputation for a reason.

#3 Stain Removal

This was one of the more surprising tests.

I used both wipes on coffee stains, dried sauce, and makeup marks on a white countertop. Lysol wipes handled sticky and greasy spots better.

They seemed to have a little more cleaning power when tackling grime or smudges.

Clorox wipes, on the other hand, were great for everyday cleaning but struggled slightly on tougher stains. They left a smooth, streak-free finish, though. If you’re cleaning spills and fingerprints, Clorox feels more polished.

If you’re scrubbing something stubborn, Lysol gets the edge.

So for deep cleaning, go Lysol. For light touch-ups and fast cleaning, Clorox wins.

Also Read: Clorox Bleach Pen Alternatives

#4 Versatility

Both brands can be used on a ton of surfaces including countertops, doorknobs, light switches, desks, and even electronics. But Lysol’s label specifically mentions use on smartphones and tablets, which is nice if you’re constantly wiping down your tech.

Clorox wipes are designed for over a hundred different surfaces, including finished wood, stainless steel, and sealed granite.

That makes them slightly more versatile around the home.

They also come in different versions, like “Clorox Free & Clear” for sensitive skin or scent-free cleaning.

Both handle bathroom and kitchen messes well, but Clorox might cover more surface types safely. Lysol feels better suited for electronics and greasy kitchen jobs.

#5 Smell

Okay, let’s talk about scent because this can make or break your cleaning mood.

Lysol wipes have a stronger smell, kind of like a “cleaning product” scent with hints of lemon or crisp linen. It lingers for a while, which some people love and others don’t.

Clorox wipes are milder. The “Crisp Lemon” scent is pleasant and fresh, and the “Free & Clear” version is fragrance-free for those who prefer something neutral.

If you’re sensitive to smells, Clorox is the way to go.

#6 Prices

Prices vary a bit depending on pack size and store, but both brands are usually close in cost.

On average, you’ll spend around the same for a container of each. Clorox tends to have more bundle deals or multipacks available, which can save you a few bucks in the long run.

Lysol sometimes costs slightly more per wipe, especially in smaller packs. But the difference isn’t huge.

For most people, it’ll come down to what’s available or on sale at the time. Both are affordable and easy to find in supermarkets and online.

#7 Ease Of Use

Using both is simple - just pull one out, wipe the surface, toss it away.

But there are a few small differences you’ll notice over time. Lysol wipes feel a bit thicker and wetter, which makes them great for larger areas or sticky messes. They don’t dry out as quickly, so you can cover more surface before grabbing another one.

Clorox wipes pull out smoother from the container and don’t clump together as much. The packaging is also slightly easier to handle when your hands are damp or slippery.

It’s small, but it makes a difference when you’re cleaning often.

So for grip and smooth dispensing, Clorox is a little easier to manage. For more moisture and strength per wipe, Lysol gets the nod.

#8 Eco Friendliness

This one’s tricky, because disinfecting wipes aren’t exactly eco-friendly by nature.

Both brands use non-biodegradable materials, so tossing them in the trash is the only option. They can’t go in the toilet or recycling bin.

However, Clorox is making small steps forward. Their “Free & Clear” line skips dyes, bleach, and ammonia, and they’ve been more transparent about reducing plastic in their packaging.

Lysol hasn’t made as much progress in that area yet.

Still, if you’re trying to be greener, reusable cloths and a disinfectant spray are more sustainable options overall. But between the two, Clorox is slightly more eco-conscious.

Should I Get Clorox Or Lysol Wipes?

Both Clorox and Lysol wipes are excellent at what they do. They clean, disinfect, and make life easier when you don’t want to deal with a spray bottle and cloth.

After testing them side by side, I’d say Clorox wipes feel a bit more user-friendly and flexible.

If your main goal is heavy-duty cleaning or you like that strong clean smell, go for Lysol. It just feels tougher on dirt. If you want something gentler, especially for everyday use or sensitive noses, Clorox is your best bet.

They’re both solid products and perform at almost the same level for germ-killing. The choice mostly comes down to your cleaning style and scent preference.

In the end, there’s no wrong pick. You can keep both at home!

Bottom Line

The main difference between Lysol and Clorox wipes is that Lysol wipes are thicker, wetter, and better at tackling sticky messes and grease, while Clorox wipes are lighter, dry faster, come in more scent-free or gentle options, and are slightly more eco-friendly.

Lysol wipes feel more heavy-duty and give that strong “just cleaned” smell.

Clorox wipes, on the other hand, are more versatile across surfaces, easier to pull from the container, and ideal for everyday cleaning without the overpowering scent.

Lysol Vs Clorox Wipes (Tested And Compared)