Chlorine bleach is a combination of chemical solutions and water. The mixture is used in various formats to whiten materials, wash laundry and materials and to disinfect objects and surfaces. The elements used to make the substance include chlorine, caustic soda and water. The chlorine and caustic soda create a solution known as sodium hypochlorite, which is a hazardous substance. Making your own cleaning solutions, including chlorine bleach, may have benefits, including cost-savings, selection of ingredients and packaging-reduction.
Gather Ingredients and Mix
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Step 1
Obtain the sodium hypochlorite chemical solution through a distributor or manufacturer. You will only need a small bottle as your final solution will be predominately water.
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Gather other materials as well, which include protective gloves, an opaque, plastic container for storage, a label or marker for labeling and water.
For a safer alternative, produce non-chlorine bleach by replacing the sodium hypochlorite chemical with hydrogen peroxide, which is readily available at your local grocery or pharmacy retailer.
Step 2
Find a well-ventilated area to mix ingredients as the fumes produced can be toxic.
Step 3
Clear the area of other liquids or solutions. There is a danger of toxic gases forming when the solution combines with specific liquids, specifically acids or alkalis (such as vinegar or ammonia). Read warnings on consumer product labels to avoid such dangers.
Step 4
To mix chlorine bleach combine 5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite and 94.75 percent water. To mix non-chlorine bleach, combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water.
Pour mixture into the plastic container, and secure tightly. Shake to mix ingredients.
Step 5
Be sure to label or use marker to note the substance in the appropriate container. Due to the handling safety, it is important to easily identify the substance for you and other household members.
Store the container out of the reach of children and away from food or drinks.
Step 6
Use chlorine bleach to clean and whiten fabrics through a chemical reaction that breaks down colors and stains in fabrics. Remove the broken down particles by washing the material or clothing.
The solution is also highly effective for cleaning household surfaces, including commonly touched surfaces and kitchen countertops.
Use chlorine bleach to disinfect water through a filtration process; this is used for drinking water and pool water, for example.