The current invention relates to modifying the surface of a cellulose-containing nonwoven substrate carrying a quaternary ammonium compound. A material for a nonwoven disinfecting wipe is provided which material includes a nonwoven substrate comprising cellulose and synthetic fibers and a combination of poly(vinylamine) and poly(amideamine-epichlorohydrin). Further, a method is provided for preparing a material for a nonwoven disinfecting wipe, the method comprising treating a nonwoven substrate comprising cellulose with poly(vinylamine) and poly(amideamine-epichlorohydrin).