Bleach is a household staple that many people use as a cleaning agent to keep their homes sanitized and germ-free. Unfortunately, the harsh chemicals present in most commercial bleach cleaners can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems or even pose hazard to pets and children. However, you can make your very own bleach cleaner at a fraction of the cost using natural household substances. This guide will show you how to make a safe and effective bleach cleaner yourself, without spending a lot of money or risking your health.
What is bleach cleaner?
Bleach cleaner, also called bleach disinfectant, is a cleaning solution that is made from bleach and various other cleaning agents. It is designed to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces such as kitchen countertops, floors, and bathroom tiles. Commercial bleach cleaners often contain harsh chemicals, such as sodium hypochlorite, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems or even harm pets and children if ingested. DIY bleach cleaners offer a safer alternative, because you can control the ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals.
Why make your own bleach cleaner?
Many conventional cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and to your health. By making your own bleach cleaner, you can avoid using these harmful chemicals and save money on store-bought cleaners. Additionally, making your own bleach cleaner is easy, and you can customize your recipe to fit your specific cleaning needs.
What You’ll Need
To make your own bleach cleaner, you will need the following items:
- Distilled water
- Bleach
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- A spray bottle or bucket
- Gloves (optional, but highly recommended)
Recipe #1: Basic Bleach Cleaner
This recipe is the most basic recipe for bleach cleaner, and is great for general cleaning tasks around your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of water
- 1 cup of bleach
Instructions:
- Mix 1 gallon of water with 1 cup of bleach in a bucket or spray bottle.
- Stir the solution together until the bleach is fully mixed in with the water. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands while mixing.
- Apply the bleach cleaner to surfaces that require disinfecting, and wipe with a clean cloth.
Precautions:
Be sure to use gloves when handling bleach, as it can cause skin irritation. Also, be sure to use this cleaner in a well-ventilated area, as the fumes can be harmful if inhaled.
Recipe #2: All-Purpose Bleach Cleaner
This recipe is great for disinfecting surfaces such as bathroom tiles, kitchen countertops and floors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of distilled water
- 1/2 cup of bleach
- 1/2 cup of vinegar
- 1 tbsp of baking soda
- A spray bottle or bucket
Instructions:
- Mix 2 cups of distilled water, 1/2 cup of bleach, 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1 tbsp of baking soda in a spray bottle or bucket.
- Stir the solution together until the baking soda is fully mixed in with the water.
- Apply the bleach cleaner to surfaces that require disinfecting, and wipe with a clean cloth.
Precautions:
Be sure to use gloves when handling bleach, as it can cause skin irritation. Also, be sure to use this cleaner in a well-ventilated area, as the fumes can be harmful if inhaled. Do not mix bleach with ammonia, as this will create toxic fumes.
Recipe #3: Bleach Cleaner for Tough Stains
This recipe is great for removing tough stains, such as on grout and other tricky surfaces.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of bleach
- 1 cup of baking soda
Instructions:
- Mix 2 cups of bleach with 1 cup of baking soda in a spray bottle or bucket.
- Stir the solution together until the baking soda is fully mixed in with the bleach.
- Apply the bleach cleaner to surfaces that require disinfecting, and wipe with a clean cloth.
Precautions:
Be sure to use gloves when handling bleach, as it can cause skin irritation. Also, be sure to use this cleaner in a well-ventilated area, as the fumes can be harmful if inhaled.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bleach cleaner on all surfaces?
A: Bleach cleaner is great for use on non-porous surfaces such as bathroom tiles, kitchen countertops and floors. However, it should not be used on porous surfaces such as wood, marble and granite, as it can leave stains and damage the surface.
Q: Can I use bleach cleaner to clean clothes?
A: Bleach cleaner is not recommended for use on clothes, as it can cause the fabric to deteriorate and bleach out. To whiten clothes, use a laundry detergent bleach alternative instead.
Q: How often should I use bleach cleaner?
A: Bleach cleaner should be used on a regular basis to keep your home clean and germ-free. However, it is important not to overuse bleach, as excessive exposure can cause harm to your health. Use bleach cleaner in moderation and only when necessary.
Q: Can I make a bleach cleaner without bleach?
A: Although bleach is a highly effective disinfectant, you can make a bleach cleaner without bleach. Substitute bleach with hydrogen peroxide or vinegar for an effective homemade cleaner.
Q: How long does bleach cleaner last?
A: Bleach cleaner can last for up to a week if stored in a cool, dry place. However, for maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to make bleach cleaner fresh every time you need to clean your home.
Conclusion
Bleach cleaner is a highly effective disinfectant that can help you keep your home clean and germ-free. However, commercial bleach cleaners often contain harsh chemicals that pose a hazard to your health and the environment. By making your own bleach cleaner, you can avoid using these harmful chemicals and create a safer, more natural cleaning solution. Follow the recipes and precautions provided in this article to make your own bleach cleaner at home.
References:
- “Bleach Safety.” Clorox. Accessed June 4, 2021. https://www.clorox.com/resources/basics/bleach-safety/.
- “Vinegar: The Cleaner.”. Green Peace. Accessed June 4, 2021. https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/sustainable-products/vinegar-the-cleaner/.
- “Baking Soda Uses: What It Does and How to Use It.” WebMD. Accessed June 4, 2021. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/baking-soda-uses-how-to.