Can You Use Lysol Wipes on Leather?
Lysol wipes are a great way to keep surfaces clean and disinfected. But can you use Lysol wipes on leather?
This is a widely debated question without a definite answer.
While some people support the use of Lysol wipes on leather others feel that they are a bit harsh and tend to cause damage over time.
I understand that cleaning leather can be a tricky task so it’s important to use the correct products and avoid damaging your leather items.
In this article, I will go over the dos and don’ts of using Lysol wipes on your leather products.
Also, I will talk about how to disinfect leather and the type of disinfectant wipes to use instead of Lysol or Clorox.
Can You Use Lysol Wipes on Leather?
Lysol and Clorox wipes are not suitable for use on leather because they contain ethyl alcohol, which strips off the natural oils in the leather. While the ethyl alcohol along with other ingredients makes the wipes more effective at breaking down oils and dissolving grime and dirt, it causes the leather to dry out.
Disinfectant wipes are used to destroy viruses and bacteria on various surfaces such as countertops in the bathroom and kitchen surfaces.
They can also be used to clean gadgets like remotes, smartphones, and tablets. However, using these wipes on leather items can cause them to become excessively dry and lead to cracking and peeling.
Moreover, Clorox and Lysol wipes contain ammonia as a component in one of their main ingredients called N-alkyl Dimethyl Ethylbenzl Ammonium Chloride.
This ingredient is a surfactant that is usually added to soaps, disinfectants, and sanitizers due to its antimicrobial properties.
However, ammonia-based products are not ideal for cleaning since they can cause the leather to discolor and break down the fibers over time.
Ideal Leather Disinfectant Wipes You Should Use
Instead of using Lysol or Clorox wipes, consider the following disinfectant wipes that are specifically made for leather items.
Weiman Leather wipes
Weiman leather wipes are specially made to be used on leather accessories including car seats, couches, jackets, purses, handbags, and shoes.
The wipes are non-toxic and help to condition the leather so that it remains moisturized for a long period.
Also, Weiman wipes provide UV protection which prevents your leather from drying out, cracking, and fading.
However, these wipes should not be used on unfinished leather such as Nubuck, suede, and Natuzzi.
Miracle wipes for leather
Miracle wipes are a good alternative to Lysol wipes since they are genuinely made to condition leather.
They restore moisture, which helps to keep leather soft and supple and prevent cracking.
These wipes can also be used to clean leather and get rid of oil stains, dirt and grime while maintaining and preserving the look and feel of your leather products.
Miracle wipes can be used on all leather products as long as they are finished.
Lexol Leather wipes
Lexol Leather wipes are a great way to clean and condition your leather seats and surfaces.
The wipes come pre-moistened with a conditioning formula that helps to protect your leather from cracking, fading, and other damage.
Also, they are pH balanced, which means they won’t strip the finish or color from your leather.
Lexol wipes are safe for use on all types of leather including automotive, furniture, and clothing.
Armor All leather wipes
Armor All leather wipes can be used to clean and protect your leather without leaving any residue behind.
They contain cleansing agents that get deep into the leather grain to remove dirt without damaging the leather.
Also, these wipes help to condition your leather items which protects them against drying, cracking, and fading.
Do Antibacterial Wipes Ruin Leather?
It turns out that antibacterial wipes are actually safe to use on leather as long as they are made for that particular purpose.
The reason why they are safe to use on leather is that they do not contain harsh chemicals like bleach and alcohol. Also, they do not strip the leather of its natural oils.
So, if you want to clean your leather using wipes, consider those that are specifically made for leather instead of general-purpose wipes like Lysol and Clorox.
Ways to Disinfect Leather Without Wipes
Leather should be disinfected on a regular basis, especially if it is used often or comes into contact with other people’s skin.
There are a few ways to disinfect leather without using wipes such as;
Using white vinegar
To clean your leather item, mix one-part white vinegar with two parts water. Sponge it onto the leather and then let it air dry.
You can also soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the leather. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
Using baking soda
Another way is to make a solution of 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water. Sponge the solution onto the leather, wipe with a clean cloth, and then leave it to air dry. The baking soda will also help to mask any smell on your leather.
Using mild soap and warm water
Saddle soap is mild and often recommended for use on leather. Rub the surface of the leather with a soapy cloth until it’s clean. Rinse your item by wiping it down with a clean cloth with warm water. Let it dry before buffing it with a clean cloth.
Conclusion
Can you use Lysol or Clorox wipes on leather? The answer is no. While Clorox and Lysol wipes are great for cleaning up general messes, they can actually damage leather if used incorrectly.
Leather is a natural material that needs to be treated with care. Harsh chemicals can strip away the natural oils that protect leather, making it dry and brittle.
So, avoid Lysol wipes as well as Clorox wipes on leather because they contain harsh chemicals that are not ideal for leather items. Instead, stick to gentle cleaning solutions like saddle soap with water, diluted vinegar, or baking soda.
