How Is Lysol a Health Hazard?

Contrary to popular belief, cleaning products are not tested for safety by any regulatory agency before appearing on the market. In fact, many disinfectants, such as Lysol, contain dangerous chemicals that pose a potential health hazard.

Glycol Ethers

• According to the U.S. Department of Human Health & Services, Lysol contains diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, which has been linked to liver, kidney, spleen and blood disorders in animals at high exposures.

O-phenylphenol

• O-phenylphenol is a fungicide. Per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this chemical is a skin, respiratory and mucous membrane irritant. Chronic exposure may cause dizziness, vomiting, blurred vision and pupil dilation. Seizures and heart palpitations have been reported at high exposures.

Other Chemicals

• A material safety data sheet provided by The College of Biological Sciences at Ohio State University lists formaldehyde and hydrochloric acid among Lysol ingredients. The document also indicates that using this product may aggravate existing respiratory conditions. Eye contact may lead to permanent disability.

Interactions

• The ingredients in Lysol are corrosive to metals. In addition, mixing this product with bleach produces a dangerous gas. Lysol is also highly combustible near an open flame.

Considerations

• Since many cleaning formulas are considered proprietary, Lysol ingredients may not be fully disclosed.