Disinfectant Spray

Name: Disinfectant Spray
Brand: Lysol

PFR Grade

Poor — significant plastic content, use with caution

Lysol contains synthetic fragrances, quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), and is packaged in aerosol cans with plastic components. Quats are linked to reproductive harm and asthma. Inhalation during use is a significant exposure route.

PFR Avoid

Aerosol disinfectant spray with synthetic fragrance. One of the most popular household disinfectants.

Score Breakdown

How scores are calculated

Materials (40%): How plastic-free the product is — raw materials, construction, and coatings.

Packaging (20%): Is the product packaged in plastic? Is it recyclable?

Transparency (20%): Does the brand disclose ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing?

Durability (20%): How long does it last? Longer-lasting products reduce plastic waste over time.

Materials

Packaging

Transparency

Durability

$8See Safer Alternatives in Cleaning

This is a rating of this specific product only — not the company. Other products from this brand may score differently.

Last updated: April 5, 2026

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Critical Exposure Risk — Why This Product Category Matters

Cleaning products are among the most chemically complex household items. Many contain synthetic fragrances (which can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals), surfactants, preservatives, and plastic packaging that leaches into the product. Inhalation during use adds a respiratory exposure route.

Synthetic Plastic Content

synthetic plastic by weight

Why We Rated It This Way

Lysol's aerosol spray creates a chemical mist that is inhaled during use. Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are linked to reproductive harm and asthma. Synthetic fragrances add additional chemical exposure. Safer disinfection alternatives exist.

Chemical & Health Analysis

Each chemical of concern is broken down below — what it is, where it comes from in this product, what it does to the body, and who is most at risk.

Contains:Aerosol can with plastic components

Phthalates

Source

Synthetic fragrance in aerosol

Health Risk

Inhalation of phthalate-containing fragrance mist during use

Who Is Most At RiskEveryone who uses aerosol cleaning products indoors

Peer-Reviewed Sources

All health claims are based on published, peer-reviewed research from the NIH, WHO, IARC, and peer-reviewed journals. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.