What is Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach) & Why You Should Avoid It
Sodium hypochlorite — better known as chlorine bleach — is a common disinfectant found in many household cleaners and laundry products. But did you know it’s also one of the most dangerous chemicals you can have in your home? Here’s what you need to know about sodium hypochlorite, why it’s risky, and how to find safer alternatives.
What is Sodium Hypochlorite?
Sodium hypochlorite is a chemical compound in the chlorine family, commonly known as bleach. It’s used in cleaning products for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties — meaning it kills a wide variety of bacteria and viruses. But it also comes with serious health risks.
Where is Sodium Hypochlorite Found?
You’ll find sodium hypochlorite in many household products, including:
- Disinfecting sprays and wipes
- Laundry detergents and bleach products
- Toilet bowl cleaners
- Some mold and mildew removers
How Can You Tell if a Product Contains Sodium Hypochlorite?
Check the product label — it’s often listed as either “chlorine bleach” or “sodium hypochlorite.” If a product touts itself as “bleach-based” or “whitening,” it likely contains this chemical. The EWG Guide to Healthy Cleaning also provides a helpful list of products that contain it.
Why is Sodium Hypochlorite Dangerous?
While it kills germs effectively, sodium hypochlorite comes with significant risks, especially when used in the home:
- 💧 Skin & eye irritation: It’s highly corrosive and can burn skin and eyes on contact, and safe use requires protective gear.
- 😮💨 Respiratory irritation: Breathing fumes can irritate your lungs and is linked to bronchitis and asthma, as noted in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
- 🚸 Poisoning risk: It’s one of the most common chemicals accidentally swallowed by children.
- ☣️ Dangerous reactions: When mixed with ammonia or acids, it releases toxic chlorine gas — another reason to avoid it in your home.
In fact, OSHA requires workers who handle it to wear gloves and masks — which tells you something about how harsh it really is!
How to Avoid Sodium Hypochlorite
Thankfully, you don’t need bleach to keep your home clean & safe. Here are some tips:
- Read labels and avoid products that list “bleach” or “sodium hypochlorite.”
- For laundry, try natural alternatives like baking soda, lemon juice, white vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide.
- Choose cleaning products that use hypochlorous acid instead — a non-toxic member of the chlorine family that’s just as effective as bleach but safe for kids & pets.
- Look for toxic-chemical-free cleaning products made with natural ingredients.
Why Choose Hypochlorous Acid Instead?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a powerful disinfectant that’s non-toxic and safe for use around kids, pets, and food — and it’s the key ingredient in Force of Nature. You get the germ-killing power of bleach without the harmful side effects.
