Bleach is a common household cleaner that many people turn to when they need to disinfect and clean surfaces around their homes. However, bleach is not suitable for all cleaning tasks, and in some cases, it can do more harm than good. In this article, we will discuss what you should not clean with bleach and why.
- Copper, Brass, and Bronze
Bleach can react with metals like copper, brass, and bronze and cause discoloration or tarnishing. In some cases, it can even corrode the metal, leaving it pitted or weakened. If you need to clean metal surfaces, use a cleaner that is specifically designed for that purpose.
- Natural Stone Surfaces
Bleach is also not suitable for cleaning natural stone surfaces like marble, granite, or travertine. The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage the surface, causing discoloration, etching, or even cracking. Instead, use a mild soap and water solution or a cleaner that is specifically designed for natural stone surfaces.
- Wood
Bleach is not suitable for cleaning wood surfaces, including hardwood floors, furniture, or trim. The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage the wood, causing discoloration, warping, or even cracking. If you need to clean wood surfaces, use a cleaner that is specifically designed for that purpose.
- Stainless Steel
While bleach can be used to clean stainless steel, it can cause discoloration or rust spots if left on the surface for too long. If you do use bleach on stainless steel, be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly with water and dry it immediately to prevent any damage.
- Fabrics
Bleach is a powerful bleach agent and can cause discoloration or damage to fabrics. While it can be used on some white fabrics, it should not be used on colored or delicate fabrics. If you need to remove stains from fabrics, consider using a stain remover that is specifically designed for that purpose.
- Electronic Devices
Bleach should not be used to clean electronic devices like phones, tablets, or computers. The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage the delicate components and cause them to malfunction. Instead, use a cleaner that is specifically designed for electronic devices.
- Carpets and Upholstery
Bleach should not be used to clean carpets or upholstery. The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage the fibers, causing discoloration or even disintegration. Instead, use a cleaner that is specifically designed for carpets or upholstery.
In conclusion, bleach is a powerful cleaning agent that can be very effective for disinfecting and cleaning surfaces around your home. However, it is not suitable for all cleaning tasks, and in some cases, it can cause more harm than good. If you are unsure if bleach is suitable for a particular cleaning task, always check the label or consult with a professional cleaner.