Bleach is an excellent household cleanser that can be used for cleaning, disinfecting, and laundering both commercially and at home. When used correctly, liquid bleach can be a safe and effective cleaning and disinfectant, but when misused, it can be extremely hazardous. Remember that there is a proper way to use bleach in your cleaning routine and that there are numerous additional ways you might be misusing it. Always keep in mind that some surfaces are simply too sensitive to be cleaned with this chemical cleaner.
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Surfaces You Should Avoid
Marble And Granite
Granite and marble worktops have a high-quality finish but using bleach to clean them could impair their luxurious appearance. Avoid cleaning these surfaces with undiluted bleach and exercise caution while using commercial kitchen cleaners. If this concentrated liquid remains on a surface for an extended period of time, you risk suffering expensive damage. Spray your surfaces with white vinegar and water, then wipe them down for sparkling results. If your marble and granite surfaces have accumulated stubborn dirt, you can rely on the services of an expert house cleaning company.
Stainless Steel Or Other Metals
When cleaned with strong bleach, vessels made from stainless steel can quickly appear old and tarnished. The main component that should never be used to clean stainless steel is sodium hypochlorite since it might oxidise the metal. The passive layer is damaged when sodium combines with atmospheric carbon dioxide, which leads to the chlorine gas product attacking the metal. White vinegar can be applied to steel surfaces with a gentle buffing motion for a streak-free finish.
Drains
You might have a routine of using a bleach solution to clean your kitchen and bathroom sinks, but you should always dilute it (1 gallon of water to 1/2 cup of bleach). When undiluted bleach combines with other compounds in the pipes, it can produce toxic vapours. A better strategy is to fill the basin with water, sprinkle some bleach on top, and let it sit for 10 minutes before pulling the plug and letting it drain.
Fruits And Vegetables
Since bleach is chemically too strong and hazardous, it should never be used to clean or sanitise food. To safeguard yourself against bacteria and germs, thoroughly cook your food and store it. Fresh produce should be rinsed for one to two minutes in cold water to effectively sanitise it. Fresh fruits and vegetables, including those with skins and rinds that are not being consumed, should all be rinsed under running water.
Wooden Surfaces
Wood is a porous substance. When bleach is applied to it, the wood becomes stained and warped. Make sure you only apply products intended for hardwood surfaces to these surfaces. These products will nourish and safeguard your wood. Bleach will lighten surfaces, giving the impression that you have eliminated the mould, but it is ineffective at removing mould spores, which can stain wooden surfaces. You should also avoid using it on other paper products, panelling, wood, and textiles.
Coloured Fabrics
Some coloured fabrics can be safely washed with bleach. Whether or not you can bleach clothes with colour depends on the type of dye used and how it was applied. You can find out by applying a bleach and water solution to a hidden area of the fabric instead of just glancing at it. When you are aware of clothing that can be washed with bleach, you can add it to your laundry with your other bleach-safe apparel.