Does Lysol Kill an Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot fungus can remain on floors, showers, towels, and other items. Cleaning these areas may help stop the fungus from spreading or returning. Here are the steps to disinfect surfaces after athlete’s foot:

1. Clean the surface with soap and water to remove dirt, hair, and other buildup.
2. Check the disinfectant label to make sure it kills fungi and is safe for the surface.
3. Open a window or door to keep the area well ventilated while you clean.
4. Apply enough disinfectant to cover the surface without soaking it.
5. Keep the surface wet for the full contact time listed on the product label.
6. Let the surface dry completely before you touch it or walk on it.
7. Wash socks, towels, and bath mats after use, and do not share them with others.

The answer to “Is Lysol antifungal?” depends on the specific product. Some Lysol products can kill certain fungi on approved surfaces when used as directed. Below, we explain how to use Lysol safely in different areas. 

Does Lysol Kill Athlete’s Foot Fungus in Shoes?

Some Lysol products may kill certain fungi on approved surfaces. However, this does not mean Lysol is safe or effective for every shoe. Lysol can disinfect suitable surfaces, but it cannot treat foot fungus or kill the fungus on your skin.

Before using Lysol for athlete’s foot fungus in shoes, keep these points in mind:

• Read the Lysol label and follow its instructions.
• Check the shoe manufacturer’s cleaning and care instructions.
• Consider the shoe material. Lysol may damage leather, suede, and other sensitive materials.
• Use the product in a well-ventilated area.

Below is how you can benefit from Lysol’s antifungal effect if the product is suitable for your shoes:

1. Remove the insoles if the shoe-care instructions allow it.
2. Apply a light spray inside the shoes, including the toe and heel areas.
3. Lightly spray suitable insoles.
4. Do not soak or saturate the shoes.
5. Let the shoes and insoles dry completely.
6. Never wear shoes while they are still wet.

Disinfecting suitable shoes may help reduce fungus in your environment, but it will not clear the infection on your feet. Use an antifungal treatment for foot or nail fungus, keep your feet dry, and wear clean moisture-wicking socks to lower the risk of recurring fungal foot infection.

Benefits of Lysol for Athlete’s Foot Fungus 

There are many benefits for using Lysol for athlete’s foot and reducing the risk of reinfection. Here are some of them:

• Lysol’s powerful ingredients can kill the fungus responsible for fungus between the toes, helping stop its spread.
• Regularly using Lysol to disinfect high-contact areas, such as shoes and shower floors, can reduce the chances of getting reinfected with the fungus.
• Lysol is widely available and easy to use for disinfecting common surfaces and items.
• Lysol helps eliminate odors in shoes.

How Long Does Lysol Take to Kill Fungus on Surfaces?

The required contact time depends on the Lysol product and the type of surface. Check the label to make sure the product targets fungi and is approved for the surface you want to clean.

• Keep the surface visibly wet for the contact time on the label.
• Use the product in a well-ventilated area.
• Let the cleaned area dry completely.
• Avoid using it on shoes, carpets, or fabrics unless these materials appear in the instructions.

Never apply Lysol to your skin. It is an environmental disinfectant, not an athlete’s foot treatment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends following the product’s directions to disinfect surfaces safely. Use an antifungal medicine made for the skin to treat the infection. 

How to Treat Athlete’s Foot Fungus

Foot fungus requires an antifungal product that is safe for the skin. Apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream, spray, or powder as directed. Keep your feet clean and dry, change your socks daily, and let your shoes dry between uses.

Disinfecting shoes and household surfaces may help stop the fungus from spreading, but it will not cure the infection on your feet. Get medical care if the symptoms become worse or do not improve after treatment.

When Athlete’s Foot Fungus Needs Professional Care