While there are several treatment options available for ringworm, like many people, you are probably curious about the role of disinfectants such as Lysol spray in controlling the spread of the infection.
Lysol is a brand of disinfectant that is commonly marketed as an effective way to kill germs and prevent the spread of infectious diseases by being used to clean and disinfect surfaces in homes, schools, and healthcare settings, but can it kill ringworm on surfaces? (and its’ spores?) What about on human skin?
Let’s find out now by looking at the role of Lysol in ringworm control and give you some information on the best cleaning and disinfecting practices.
We’ll also look at some alternative remedies and recommendations (and whether they’re effective) for preventing and treating ringworm.
The Role of Lysol in Ringworm Control
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of ringworm is to use a disinfectant spray like Lysol.
It’s a popular disinfectant spray that is used to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces, and it’s good news if you’re wondering whether ringworm is included on the list of germs/bacteria..
Yes, it is also effective in getting rid of the fungus that causes ringworm.
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails. It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm and humid environments.
Ringworm spores can survive on surfaces for months, making it easy to spread from person to person through contact with contaminated objects.
Effectiveness of Lysol Against Ringworm Fungus
Studies have shown that Lysol is effective in killing the fungus that causes ringworm.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, Lysol was found to have a “very light disinfectant action” on ringworm funguses that may be borne on clothing.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the active ingredient in regular Lysol (benzalkonium chloride) is an effective way to kill the spores of ringworm.
However, it is important to note that Lysol is not a cure for ringworm on human skin. It is only effective in killing the fungus on surfaces and objects.
Proper Use of Lysol Spray
To effectively kill ringworm spores with Lysol, it is important to use the spray properly. Here are some tips for using Lysol spray to control ringworm:
- Spray Lysol on surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with ringworm spores, such as clothing, bedding, and furniture.
- Use Lysol spray regularly on surfaces and objects that are often touched, such as doorknobs, light switches, bathroom and kitchen countertops.
- Allow the Lysol spray to sit on the surface for at least 10 minutes to ensure that the ringworm spores are killed.
- Avoid using Lysol spray on the skin or hair, as it can cause irritation and other adverse reactions.
It’s important to reiterate that the spray is not a cure for ringworm and should not be used on the skin or hair.
Does Lysol Spray Kill Ringworm on Surfaces? (Cleaning and Disinfecting Practices)
To prevent the spread of ringworm, it is important to keep surfaces, furniture, fabrics, and bedding clean and disinfected.
Let’s look at which surfaces Lysol spray is a good option to use for fungus’ like ringworm and the proper directions to use it:
Disinfecting Surfaces and Furniture
Lysol spray is a common disinfectant that can help kill ringworm on surfaces and furniture.
To disinfect surfaces and furniture with Lysol, start by cleaning them with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
Then, spray the surface with Lysol or bleach and let it sit for the recommended amount of time.
Then, wipe the surface with a clean, damp cloth and let it dry completely.
Cleaning Fabrics and Bedding
Lysol spray can be effective in killing ringworm on fabric and bedding, but it is important to follow the instructions on the label and let the surfaces dry completely before use.
Maybe more importantly, to clean fabrics and bedding, you should wash them thoroughly in hot water and dry them on high heat, or vacuum them thoroughly and then spray them with Lysol or bleach.
According to one source, it is also recommended to use some laundry bleach to kill any remaining ringworm spores.
If the items cannot be washed, they can be vacuumed thoroughly and then sprayed with Lysol or bleach. It is important to let the spray dry completely before using the items again.
Ringworm can also spread through contaminated fabrics and contact with bedding that has been contaminated.
Does Lysol Spray Kill Ringworm Spores?
Lysol is a popular disinfectant that is used to clean and disinfect surfaces, furniture, bedding, and fabrics. But, does Lysol kill ringworm spores?
Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated surfaces.
The spores of the fungus can survive on surfaces for months, making it difficult to eliminate the infection.
According to a PDF document by the Australian Veterinary Association, Lysol spray is effective in killing ringworm spores.
However, it is important to note that not all Lysol products are created equal.
The document recommends using Lysol Disinfectant Spray, which contains 79% ethanol and 0.1% alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinate, to kill ringworm spores.
To effectively clean and disinfect surfaces, it is important to follow the instructions on the Lysol product label.
The surface should be cleaned thoroughly before applying the disinfectant spray.
The spray should be applied generously to the surface and left to air dry for at least 10 minutes.
It is also important to note that Lysol spray is not always fully effective in killing ringworm spores on fabrics or bedding.
These items should be laundered in hot water and dried on high heat to kill the spores.
Vacuuming carpets and upholstery can also help to remove spores from the environment.
Treatment and Prevention of Ringworm
Topical Antifungal Treatments
When it comes to treating ringworm, topical antifungal creams are often the first line of defense.
These creams can be applied directly to the affected area and work by killing the fungus that causes ringworm.
Some common antifungal creams used to treat ringworm include clotrimazole, miconazole, and terbinafine (though an analysis found that 19% of ringworm infections have developed resistance to these treatments)
It is important to follow the instructions provided by the cream’s manufacturer or your healthcare provider when using these creams.
In most cases, the cream should be applied to the affected area two to three times per day for several weeks to ensure that the infection is fully treated.
Preventative Measures
Preventing ringworm from occurring in the first place is the best way to avoid the need for treatment. Here are some preventative measures that can help keep ringworm away:
- Keep your living space clean and free of dust and debris. Vacuum regularly and wipe down surfaces with a disinfectant.
- If you have a pet, make sure they are properly groomed and treated for any skin conditions. Ringworm can be spread from animals to humans, so it is important to take steps to prevent your pet from getting infected.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, combs, and clothing with others. Ringworm can be spread through contact with infected items.
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, especially after touching animals or coming into contact with potentially infected surfaces.
- If you do develop ringworm, take steps to prevent it from spreading to other areas of your body or to other people. This may include covering the affected area with a bandage or avoiding close contact with others until the infection has cleared up.
While Lysol is a common disinfectant, it is important to note that it may not be effective at killing the fungus that causes ringworm.
According to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a disinfectant capable of killing dermatophytes failed to prevent the transmission of ringworm.
Therefore, it is important to use other preventative measures and antifungal treatments to effectively treat and prevent ringworm.
Alternative Ringworm Remedies and Recommendations
If you are looking for alternative remedies for ringworm, there are several options available. In this section, we will explore some home remedies for ringworm, as well as when to see a doctor about your ringworm.
Home Remedies for Ringworm
If you get ringworm, and your symptoms are not severe, there are some home remedies you can try.
Below are two popular home treatment options for mild cases:
Apple Cider Vinegar
One of the most popular home remedies for ringworm is apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties and is believed to be effective in treating ringworm.
To use apple cider vinegar as a treatment, mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball.
Repeat this process two to three times a day until the ringworm clears up.
Tea Tree Oil
Another home remedy for ringworm is tea tree oil.
Tea tree oil has antifungal properties and is believed to be effective in treating ringworm. To use tea tree oil as a treatment, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area.
Repeat this process two to three times a day until the ringworm clears up.
When to See a Doctor About Your Ringworm
If your ringworm does not improve with home remedies, or if it is severe, you should see a doctor.
Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter antifungal cream or prescribe an oral antifungal medication.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend a bleach bath to help clear up the infection.
Bleach baths can be effective in treating ringworm, but they can also be harsh on the skin, so be absolutely sure you follow the dilution instructions (usually 0.005% bleach and the rest water, depending on bleach strength).
It is important to note that ringworm is highly contagious and can spread easily.
If you have ringworm, it is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the infection.
This includes washing your hands regularly, avoiding sharing personal items such as towels and clothing, and avoiding contact with others until the infection has cleared up.
In conclusion, there are several alternative remedies for ringworm, including apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil, as well as a highly diluted bleach bath.
If your ringworm does not improve with home remedies, or if it is severe, you should see a doctor.
Wrap-Up
Lysol spray can kill the ringworm fungus and spores on surfaces and fabrics, but for fabrics and bedding, it’s a much safer bet if you also wash them at a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius to be absolutely sure.
To prevent this itchy fungus from showing up again, be sure to keep on top of your personal hygiene and the cleanliness of your home with regular surface disinfecting and vacuuming floors, fabrics and bedding.
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References:
1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC88911/
2) https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/risk-prevention.html
3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25219289
4) https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/jcm.00562-23?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed&ACSTrackingID=USCDC_1052-DM110908&ACSTrackingLabel=COCA%20Now%3A%20Severe%20and%20Antifungal-resistant%20Ringworm%20Infections&deliveryName=USCDC_1052-DM110908
