Dettol vs Lysol: Which Disinfectant Actually Kills More Germs?
When it comes to keeping your home clean and germ-free, Dettol and Lysol are the two heavyweight champions everyone talks about. Both claim to kill 99.9% of germs, both have loyal fans, and both are used in homes, hospitals, and offices worldwide. But if you’ve ever wondered which one truly performs better — this review breaks it down.
Brand Overview
Dettol
Dettol is a British brand owned by Reckitt Benckiser, with a long history of providing antiseptics and disinfectants trusted across Africa and beyond. It’s best known for its distinct antiseptic smell and reliable germ-killing power. In Nigeria, Dettol is widely used for disinfecting wounds, cleaning surfaces, and even in bathwater for added hygiene.
Lysol
Lysol, on the other hand, is a global American brand also under Reckitt. It’s more popular in North America and Europe but has made a strong presence in African markets. Lysol products range from sprays and wipes to laundry sanitizers. Unlike Dettol’s sharp antiseptic fragrance, Lysol tends to have fresh, perfumed scents, making it a favourite for household cleaning.
Key Difference: Active Ingredients
Both products are formulated to kill bacteria and viruses, but they use different active ingredients.
| Product | Main Active Ingredient | Type of Germ Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Dettol Liquid Disinfectant | Chloroxylenol (4.8%) | Broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal |
| Lysol Disinfectant Spray | Benzalkonium Chloride (or Ethanol, depending on variant) | Antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal |
Dettol’s Chloroxylenol is particularly effective against bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, while Lysol’s Benzalkonium Chloride and ethanol-based sprays are more effective against viruses, including the flu and COVID-19-causing coronavirus.
Which One Kills More Germs?
Both brands claim to kill 99.9% of germs — but in scientific tests, Lysol generally has broader antiviral coverage due to its alcohol-based formula. Studies during the COVID-19 pandemic showed that Lysol sprays were among the first to be approved by the US EPA for use against SARS-CoV-2.
However, Dettol performs exceptionally well against common bacteria and fungi, especially on skin and household surfaces. It’s ideal for daily cleaning, wound disinfection, and personal hygiene. So while Lysol may have an edge in antiviral strength, Dettol remains a more versatile disinfectant overall.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | Dettol | Lysol |
| Germ coverage | Excellent for bacteria & fungi | Excellent for viruses & bacteria |
| Best use | Wound care, surface cleaning, bathing | Household disinfection, surfaces, air sanitation |
| Fragrance | Strong antiseptic | Fresh, perfumed |
| Availability in Nigeria | Very common | Moderate availability |
| Price range (Nigeria, 2025) | ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 (varies by size) | ₦4,500 – ₦8,000 (varies by size) |
Effectiveness in Real-Life Use
-
For Personal Hygiene: Dettol wins. Its formula is safe for skin use when diluted, making it great for bathing or cleaning minor cuts.
-
For Home Cleaning: Lysol is better for disinfecting surfaces like kitchen counters, toilets, and door handles.
-
For Airborne Germs: Lysol sprays are designed to sanitize the air and soft surfaces, where Dettol liquid is less effective.
Safety and Skin Sensitivity
Dettol’s liquid form must always be diluted before use on skin, while Lysol sprays should not be used directly on skin at all. Both products are safe when used correctly, but misuse (especially undiluted Dettol) can cause dryness or irritation.
Which Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your main goal:
-
Choose Dettol if you want a trusted disinfectant for personal hygiene, laundry, and multipurpose cleaning.
-
Choose Lysol if your focus is on surface disinfection, air sanitation, and virus control.
For Nigerian households, Dettol remains the more practical option due to its affordability, versatility, and availability. But if you can get your hands on Lysol, it’s excellent for deep cleaning and viral protection.
Final Verdict
Both Dettol and Lysol live up to their claims of killing 99.9% of germs, but they shine in different areas. Lysol has stronger antiviral properties and a modern scent, while Dettol excels in antibacterial coverage and everyday usability. In short: Lysol wins the lab battle for viruses, Dettol wins the home battle for reliability.
If you’re looking for genuine Dettol or Lysol disinfectants in Nigeria, shop trusted products on Brandlistry Nigeria, your verified source for authentic health and hygiene essentials.
