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When the word “bleach” comes to mind, you may immediately think of the warnings about keeping this cleaning agent away from certain materials. Although bleach is known for its strong properties that can potentially cause damage, it is safe to use in moderation! There are actually eight areas in your home where it is perfectly safe to use a diluted mixture of bleach and water for cleaning, brightening, and sanitizing.
Caution should always be exercised when using bleach in safe areas. Never mix bleach with other chemical cleaners and ensure that the area is well ventilated.
Mold & Mildew
If you notice mold or mildew in your home, it is essential to address it promptly for health reasons. Bleach is a powerful cleaner that is effective for tackling mold or mildew on non-porous surfaces like sinks, tiles, glass, or bathtubs.
Trash Cans & Compost Bins
Trash cans and compost bins in your home are ideal areas to clean with bleach to eliminate bacteria. These areas are prone to collecting dirt, bacteria, mold, and germs, making regular disinfecting cleaning essential.
White Clothes
While bleach is often avoided for colored clothes due to its discoloration potential, it can be safely used to clean and brighten white garments when used in the recommended amounts. Diluting bleach with water before adding it to the washing machine is advisable to prevent fabric damage.
Sealed or Glazed Countertops
Contrary to popular belief, bleach can be safely used on sealed or glazed countertops like granite and ceramic tile. These surfaces can withstand a diluted bleach solution, effectively sanitizing them without causing damage.
Gardening Tools
Bleach is an effective cleaner for garden tools as it helps prevent the spread of diseases from plants. To protect metal tools from corrosion, it is recommended to mix bleach with water before soaking the tools.
White Porcelain Items
White porcelain items such as toilets can be safely cleaned with bleach due to their non-porous nature. Bleach can remove stains without damaging the material.
Select Outdoor Furniture
Plastic outdoor furniture can be cleaned with a diluted bleach mixture to remove stains and brighten the pieces. It is important to avoid using bleach on metal or wooden furniture.
Non-Porous Surfaces
In addition to plastic, white porcelain, and glass, other non-porous surfaces can tolerate bleach for effective cleaning. Be cautious when using bleach on sensitive materials.
To maintain cleanliness, you can disinfect stainless steel, vinyl flooring, shower curtains, and tiles. Check out the article “6 Things You Should Never Clean With Bleach, According To Cleaning Pros” on Southern Living for more information.
