Why You Should NEVER Use Hot Water with Bleach for Cleaning – 10 Facts

In our daily cleaning routines, the bathroom often becomes a trouble spot with the quick buildup of stains and mold. This is primarily due to the humid environment, given that most bathrooms in South Korea have wet toilets. When tackling mold, grime, and dirt on the floor, tiles, and toilet, bleach is often the go-to solution. However, it’s crucial to understand the proper usage of bleach when diluting it with water—the choice between hot and cold water for dilution matters. Let’s delve into the correct ways to use bleach.

What is Bleach?

Bleach is a 4-5% solution of sodium hypochlorite (NaCIO) dissolved in water. The American Clorox, which is sold under the brand name Clorox instead of its long chemical term, has become established as bleach by taking the last two letters of the word, and in Korea, Clorox and Yuhan Bleach, a joint venture product of Yuhan Corporation, are famous. High-concentration sodium hypochlorite is very powerful, so it is sold diluted enough for household use. However, it must be further diluted, even if this is still very toxic.

What is the Disinfection Power of Bleach?

Bleach is the most commonly used disinfectant due to its cost-effectiveness, convenience, and exceptional germ-killing properties. Unlike ethanol-based disinfectants that are effective mainly against some viruses and gram-negative bacteria, bleach can destroy protein-based structures, making it highly efficient in disinfection. It works rapidly, irrespective of the weather or location, and is cost-effective, making it a preferred choice for disinfecting restaurant kitchens, bathrooms, and food surfaces.

Using Hot Water with Bleach?

To clarify, when diluting bleach with water, it is absolutely advised against using hot water. In commercial products, the primary component of bleach, sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), is already diluted. When mixed with hot water, it can produce a toxic chlorine gas, irritating the eyes, nose, and throat upon inhalation over extended periods, leading to headaches, respiratory distress, and dizziness.

Using Cold Water with Bleach?

So, what’s the best choice for dilution? It is generally recommended to use lukewarm or cold water when diluting bleach. However, experts suggest using cold water only to avoid unintentionally resorting to hot water out of habit.

Is it Okay to Rinse with Hot Water, Not Mixing Hot Water?

Is rinsing with hot water instead of dilution a safe alternative? Bleach is intended for use in scenarios where heat is not applied. For example, in the case of Yuhan Lax, it is recommended to use it at temperatures above 60°C (140°F). After rinsing, adding hot water is permissible since no chlorine gas is produced.

Is it Okay to Mix Bleach with Other Detergents?

Mixing alkaline chlorine-based bleach with acidic or oxygen-based detergents like vinegar or hydrogen peroxide can be ineffective and dangerous. Such combinations can release excessive chlorine gas within a short time, which can be life-threatening when mixed with hydrochloric acid. Mixing bleach and acidic detergents for 5-10 minutes during cleaning can irritate mucous membranes, and if exposed for 10-20 minutes, it can cause chronic bronchitis. Therefore, it’s crucial to exercise caution when using bleach in combination with other cleaning agents.

What is the Smell that Occurs When Using Bleach?

When bleach is used for cleaning, it reacts with germs and molds, forming byproducts such as salt, water, and chloramine. The characteristic smell associated with bleach is due to the presence of chloramine. While this odor is not harmful to health, it can be unpleasant. To reduce the odor, adequate ventilation and proper dilution of bleach are recommended after primary cleaning with common household detergents.

Should Bleach be Wiped or Rinsed After Use?

Failing to clean or rinse surfaces after using bleach can lead to persistent discomfort due to the unpleasant odor of chloramine. Moreover, chloramine can continue to oxidize surfaces, causing long-term damage. Residual microorganisms killed by bleach remain on the surface, attracting new environmental contaminants and moisture. It’s essential to rinse surfaces thoroughly with cold water or wipe them with a cloth after disinfection with bleach.

What Happens When Bleach Touches the Skin?

The original bleach solution has a pH level of 10-11, indicating strong alkalinity. Alkaline solutions typically dissolve proteins gradually, and since human skin is composed of proteins, direct contact with bleach may cause a slippery sensation. While it may not pose a significant risk to uninjured skin, sensitive or damaged skin can experience irritation. Therefore, wearing rubber gloves or protecting your skin when using bleach for disinfection is crucial.

Unexpected Ways to Use Bleach?

In its pure form without additives, Bleach is classified as a food additive and can be used for food surface disinfection. For food, dilute 10 ml of bleach in 4 liters of water; for kitchenware and equipment, dilute 10 ml of bleach in 2 liters of water. One interesting note is that bleach is not recommended for use with black sesame seeds, as there have been cases in Japan where unscrupulous sellers bleached inferior-quality black sesame seeds for sale.

By. Oh Hye-in (press@daily.co.kr)