How to Clean Door Handles

Door knobs and handles are among the most frequently touched surfaces in the home, yet rarely get the attention they deserve during regular cleaning. Whether made of chrome, brass, stainless steel, or another material, these high-touch surfaces can quietly collect germs, grime, and bacteria, becoming hidden hotspots for contamination.

That’s why it’s important not just to clean, but to disinfect. Using trusted products like Lysol^®, which kills 99.99% of viruses and bacteria when used as directed, helps ensure your doorknobs and handles are not only visibly clean, but also hygienic.

The good news? Disinfecting your door hardware is quick and easy with the right approach. In this guide, Lysol^® Canada walks you through everything you need to know—from what supplies to use to step-by-step instructions— so every entrance in your home stays as safe as it is stylish.

Supplies you need

• Lysol^® All-Purpose Cleaning Spray
• Microfiber cloth
• Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush

Cleaning door knobs

Follow the steps below to clean door knobs and handles effectively:

1. Begin by collecting everything you need. Having the right cleaning tools and supplies on hand ensures a thorough clean and helps prevent damage to the handle’s surface during the process.
2. If the handle has visible grime, sticky spots, or dust, give it a quick wipe using a damp microfiber cloth. Removing loose dirt and debris beforehand helps the cleaning spray work more effectively, ensuring a cleaner, streak-free finish in the end.
3. Allow the cleaner to sit on the surface for at least 3 minutes. This dwell time is crucial for breaking down dirt, dust, grime, and giving disinfecting agents time to kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria^*.
4. Use a microfiber cloth to scrub the knob or handle, working in gentle circular motions. For textured or grooved areas, use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to dislodge hidden dirt. Be gentle to avoid scratching delicate finishes or coatings.
5. After scrubbing, wipe off any remaining cleaner with a dry microfiber cloth. Be sure to dry the handle thoroughly to prevent water spots, rust (especially on metal), and slippery residue that could transfer to hands.

^*When used as directed.

FAQs

How often should you clean door knobs?

Lower-use door handles around the house should be thoroughly wiped down at least once a week. High-traffic door handles should be cleaned daily, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, or shared spaces.

Should I clean door handles more often during cold and flu season?

Yes, during cold and flu season—or when someone in your home is sick—it’s important to disinfect door handles more frequently, ideally once a day or more. These high-touch surfaces can easily harbour germs, viruses, and bacteria, increasing the risk of illness spreading. Using a trusted disinfectant like Lysol^® All-Purpose Cleaning Spray, which kills 99.99% of viruses and bacteria when used as directed, helps keep your home cleaner, safer, and more hygienic.

How do I clean door handles with intricate designs or grooves?

Use a soft-bristle brush, toothbrush, or cotton swab to reach and clean into grooves and textured areas around door handles.

What’s the best way to keep door handles smelling clean?

To keep door handles smelling fresh, it’s important to disinfect them regularly with products that not only clean but also leave behind a pleasant scent. Lysol^® disinfectants are available in Classic Lemon and the Brand New Day^™ range, helping your home smell clean while supporting a hygienic environment.