The Best Disinfectant Sprays of Today

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Disinfectant Sprays of Today and hope the blog can help you.

Eliminate bacteria and germs on high-touch surfaces in a variety of living spaces with one of these top-rated products.

Harmful bacteria can multiply in the home at an alarming rate, which may place family members at a higher risk of illness or infection. That’s why it’s important to understand how disinfectants play a vital role in the ongoing effort to keep our homes clean and germ-free. Unlike other household cleaners designed to remove grime, grease, and stains, disinfectants destroy disease-carrying pathogens (the germs that can make you sick) on-site.

Disinfectant products are available as sprays for treating large areas; liquids that can be diluted or applied directly to surfaces (via sponges, mops, and brushes); and convenient wipes for on-the-go applications. Keep reading to find out how to select the best disinfectant products, as well as why we’ve chosen the following products to disinfect a variety of areas throughout the whole home.

1. BEST OVERALL: Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Cleaner
2. RUNNER-UP: Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Method Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner 
4. BEST MULTISURFACE: Windex Multisurface Disinfectant Cleaner
5. BEST CONCENTRATED: Purell Multisurface Disinfectant
6. BEST FOR ALL SURFACES: Microban 24-Hour Sanitizing Spray
7. BEST BATHROOM SPRAY: Clorox Disinfecting Bathroom Foamer Cleaning System

Before You Buy a Disinfectant Spray

For those choosing a disinfectant spray, the most important consideration is its effectiveness in killing germs and bacteria. Some of the most popular options on the market today are capable of not only killing the Coronavirus, cold and flu bacteria, rhinovirus, and more, but also cleaning while disinfecting for added convenience.

While these products are very user-friendly, some manufacturers include harsh chemicals that can leave behind residue. While our list of top picks is geared toward natural, safe cleaning products that are safe for the environment as well as for humans and pets, consumers will always want to consider the ingredients within their disinfectant sprays and follow the manufacturer’s instructions while using.

How We Chose the Best Disinfectant Sprays

We researched the most sought-after disinfectant sprays in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are determined by their ingredients, purpose and effectiveness, application type, ease of use, and other special features included by top brands.

After extensive product research, we included options in our list of top all-purpose and multisurface disinfectants that were made with as few chemicals as possible. Plus, each of the included top picks does a superior job at not only eliminating bacteria and germs but also cleaning away dirt, grime, hard water spots, stains, and dust. Additionally, these products come as aerosols, mists, or wipes to suit individual needs, although we’ve focused on sprays for this article.

While looking through our compiled list of top picks, note that some products kill over 99.9 percent of bacteria, leave a lingering fresh scent behind after use, and can be used on virtually any hard household surface.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Clorox EcoClean Disinfecting Cleaner

Eco-conscious shoppers will appreciate the sustainability of the Clorox EcoClean disinfecting spray. A great defense against germs, this EPA Safer Choice–certified spray harnesses the power of a plant-based active ingredient to eliminate 99.9 percent of germs in kitchen spaces including countertops, sinks, and cabinetry. Not only does it prioritize safety, but the spray bottle itself also promotes environmental sustainability by being made with 25 percent recycled plastic.

Achieve a cleaner and greener space with ease: Simply spray the solution until the surface is visibly wet, then let it sit for 2 minutes to disinfect. Clorox EcoClean helps create a healthier environment for households or businesses; it provides a thorough cleaning and disinfecting and leaves behind a fresh scent.

Product Specs 

• Purpose: Hard, nonporous surfaces
• Application type: Spray bottle
• Active ingredient: Lactic acid

Pros

• Made using 25 percent recycled plastic; great for eco-conscious shoppers
• Eliminates 99.9 percent of harmful germs using a simple plant-based active ingredient
• One of very few EPA Design for the Environment–certified disinfectant products
• Does not use any harsh chemicals; safer for use around kids and pets

Cons

• Must be applied liberally on surfaces and left for up to 2 minutes to disinfect

Get the Clorox EcoClean disinfectant spray at Amazon, Walmart, or Staples.

Runner-Up

Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray

This natural product is designed to disinfect and deodorize hard and nonporous surfaces, such as those in the kitchen and bathroom as well as children’s toys and furniture. It kills 99.99 percent of bacteria and viruses via its active ingredient, thymol, which is a derivative of the oil extracted from thyme. As a disinfectant with powerful antibacterial properties, it not surprisingly has a fairly strong smell. Other essential oils, such as ylang ylang, orange, grapefruit, and geranium, help to balance out the scent.

Though the product is effective, the sprayer mechanism can spray large quantities quickly, so take this into consideration during use. Note that the product must be left on the surface for 10 minutes to disinfect.

Product Specs 

• Purpose: All hard, nonporous surfaces
• Application type: Aerosol spray
• Active ingredients: Thymol and d-Limonene

Pros

• Uses natural active ingredients including essential oils such as thyme, orange, and geranium (other scents are available)
• No need to wipe after use; simply apply and enjoy the scent
• Removes odors as well as germs from a space
• Kills 99.99 percent of bacteria and viruses

Cons

• Must remain on surfaces for 10 minutes for full effectiveness; can sometimes feel sticky
• Strong odor is not likely to be to everyone’s preference, although it doesn’t last long

Get the Seventh Generation disinfectant spray at Amazon (8-pack).

Best Bang for the Buck

Method Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner

Method is recognized as one of the most eco-friendly brands on the market when it comes to cleaning products. This antibacterial all-purpose cleaner spray is one of Method’s most popular products. It’s tough on grease, grime, and dirt while killing 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria with the help of its citric acid-based formula, making it ideal for kitchen spaces including cabinetry, tables, countertops, and sinks. Specifically, this antibacterial spray is meant to kill Staphylococcus aureus, rhinovirus, influenza A viruses, E. coli, Salmonella enterica, and Enterobacter aerogenes.

Recommended for kitchen surfaces, counters, chairs, door knobs, and more, this spray provides great all-purpose disinfecting power while leaving behind a fresh, herbaceous scent.

Product Specs 

• Purpose: All-purpose
• Application type: Spray bottle
• Active ingredient: Citric acid

Pros

• Eco-friendly organic formula is ideal for the chemical-conscious household
• Cleans while it disinfects; simply spray and wipe on most hard surfaces
• Kills Staphylococcus aureus, rhinovirus, influenza A viruses, E. coli, Salmonella enterica, and Enterobacter aerogenes
• Leaves behind a fresh bamboo scent after use (other scents are available)

Cons

• Some users have reported some residue and unpleasant smells left behind after use

Get the Method disinfectant spray at Amazon (4-pack), The Home Depot, or Target.

Best Multisurface

Windex Multisurface Disinfectant Cleaner

Available in a trigger-spray bottle, Windex multisurface disinfectant cleaner is ideal for disinfecting hard bathroom and kitchen surfaces as well as kitchen tabletops. Spray liberally on hard, nonporous surfaces; let it stand for 10 minutes; and then wipe dry with clean paper towels.

This disinfectant is also designed to clean away spills and hard water spots to leave a streak-free shine, making it suitable for cleaning and disinfecting windows. It leaves a polished look, keeping bathroom sinks and acrylic tubs looking spotless and shiny. It’s also great for cleaning mirrors.

Product Specs 

• Purpose: Multisurface
• Application type: Spray bottle
• Active ingredient: Lactic acid

Pros

• Suitable for use in kitchens and bathrooms, and on tables and other hard surfaces
• Easy to use; simply spray and then wipe the bacteria, dirt, hard water spots, and dust away
• Leaves surfaces streak-free and shiny and has a light lemon scent

Cons

• May leave streaks behind if not wiped off thoroughly

Get the Windex disinfectant spray at Amazon,The Home Depot, Walmart, or Target. 

Best Concentrated

Purell Multisurface Disinfectant

Purell is one of the most well-known disinfecting brands, and this two-pack of the brand’s multisurface disinfectant lives up to the hype. This powerful disinfectant is capable of killing human coronavirus in 30 seconds, and it kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria. Plus, it has no harsh chemical fumes while achieving this cleaning power.

To use, simply spray the product on any sealed granite, glass, laminate, plastic, and other hard surfaces, including locations that have food contact. For user-friendliness and peace of mind, this option also has an EPA certification and one of the lowest levels of toxicity on the market, and it comes with a trigger sprayer.

Product Specs 

• Purpose: Multisurface
• Application type: Spray bottle
• Active ingredient:Ethyl alcohol

Pros

• Worldwide trusted brand
• Kills bacteria and germs; can kill human coronavirus in 30 seconds
• Also capable of killing cold and flu viruses, salmonella, strep, and norovirus
• Works on most hard surfaces with the help of the trigger sprayer

Cons

• Some users have reported a lingering alcohol smell after use

Get the Purell disinfectant spray at Amazon. 

Best for All Surfaces

Microban 24-Hour Sanitizing Spray

Versatility is something that Microban 24-hour sanitizing spray has a monopoly on as an effective disinfectant. This product is suitable for use on hard surfaces like countertops, tables, and toys as well as soft couches, backpacks, shoes, and coats. As for its effectiveness, this sanitizing aerosol spray kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria for 24 hours, and initially kills the COVID-19 virus (although it hasn’t been proven to provide 24-hour residual virus protection).

Available in a 15-ounce spray can, this product is ideal for busy households with children and pets, especially since it has an EPA certification for safety. Plus, it does not need to be wiped or rinsed after it’s applied, and it leaves behind a light citrus scent. Need more? This reliable formula also deodorizes spaces and prevents mold and mildew growth.

Product Specs 

• Purpose: Soft and hard surfaces
• Application type: Aerosol spray
• Active ingredients: Ammonium chlorides and quaternium-24

Pros

• Suitable for hard and soft surfaces; can be used on counters, tables, couches, cabinetry, blankets, and clothing
• Kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria, and it initially kills the COVID-19 virus
• Does not need to be wiped or rinsed after application and leaves behind a citrus scent

Cons

• Scent may be too strong for some users’ preferences
• While it provides protection against germs and bacteria for 24 hours, it hasn’t been proven to provide 24-hour residual virus protection

Get the Microban disinfectant spray at Amazon (2-pack) or Target. 

Best Bathroom Spray

Clorox Disinfecting Bathroom Foamer Cleaning System

Many bathroom cleaners use bleach, which is not only harmful to the environment but also leaves behind a strong and somewhat unpleasant odor. Shoppers looking for an alternative will want to consider this disinfecting bathroom foamer from Clorox, which uses a bleach-free formula that still manages to kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria. Clorox gets extra points here for also providing a reusable and recyclable plastic spray bottle. Once the spray bottle is empty, use the refill cartridges—two of which are included with purchase—to continue using the same spray bottle for up to 10 years (kudos to any user who can go that long without breaking or losing the bottle).

This misting spray is suitable for cleaning shower walls, bathtubs, tiles, grout, shower curtains, sinks, and toilets. As an all-around bathroom cleaner, it does a great job cleaning and disinfecting without the bleach smell.

Product Specs

• Purpose: Bathroom cleaner
• Application type: Spray bottle
• Active ingredients: Ammonium chlorides and alkyl C14, C12, and C16

Pros

• Bleach-free formula that still eliminates viruses and bacteria
• Suitable for cleaning almost any bathroom surface
• Spray bottle is reusable for up 10 years; environmentally friendly

Cons

• Since the bottle size is on the small side, it will need to be refilled more frequently

Get the Clorox disinfecting bathroom foamer at Amazon or Walmart.

Or, DIY Your Own Disinfectant Spray 

Buying a disinfecting soap or spray is a viable option for getting rid of bacteria and germs in bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, nurseries, or other living spaces. However, for those who prefer the DIY route, the following recipe is one we trust that can be made with materials commonly found around the house:

1. Collect white vinegar, alcohol or vodka, essential oil (optional), and a glass or plastic spray bottle.
2. Combine 1¼ cups water with ¼ cup vinegar and ¼ cup alcohol in your spray bottle. For an added scent booster, add 15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Shake well to combine.
3. Apply to hard surfaces and wipe away with a microfiber cloth after 10 minutes. Warning: vinegar mixtures cannot be used on granite or marble surfaces. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

Our Verdict

When selecting the ideal disinfectant sprays for this list of top picks, we ensured that each of the products included had few or no harsh chemicals to keep humans, pets, and the environment safe and protected. However, there are some well-known options that didn’t make our list of top picks due to their higher chemical compositions, including Lysol disinfectant spray, which includes chemicals such as ammonium hydroxide. According to Wayne State University, this is a “known environmental hazard.”

What to Consider When Choosing a Disinfectant Spray

Whether sanitizing after an illness or keeping certain bacteria at bay, it’s important to take note of active ingredients, EPA Registration Numbers, and desired applications in order to select the right disinfectant cleaners for your home.

Active Ingredients

In order to qualify as a disinfectant, a product must contain ingredients that have been tested in labs and shown to kill various types of viruses, such as bacteria, fungi, and parasites. While the active ingredient listed on a product’s label may be long and difficult to pronounce, it is derived from one (or a combination of) the following CDC-approved disinfectant ingredients. The first three active ingredients on the list—alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and chlorine—are household products that can be used individually as disinfectants and are also found in commercial disinfectants.

Please note: Disinfectants can be toxic if misused, so follow product directions carefully.

• Alcohol: In concentrations over 70 percent, alcohol is effective at killing viruses but not bacteria. It can be found in various disinfecting products, including liquids, sprays, and wipes. For alcohol to successfully disinfect, the product should be applied and the surface allowed to remain wet for 30 seconds. In other words, don’t apply and then immediately wipe it dry—wait for at least 30 seconds (longer if indicated on the product’s directions). Use alcohol for disinfecting surfaces when known viruses are going around, but opt for one of the other products if you’re disinfecting against the spread of bacteria, such as s