Bleach is a versatile and powerful cleaning agent that is commonly used for disinfecting and removing stains. However, there are many other smart and surprising uses for bleach that you may not have known about. Here are some of the smart uses for bleach that you can try at home.
- Disinfecting Surfaces: One of the most common uses for bleach is disinfecting surfaces. Bleach is highly effective at killing germs and bacteria, making it ideal for disinfecting high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. Simply mix one part bleach with nine parts water and use a cloth or sponge to wipe down surfaces.
- Removing Mold and Mildew: Bleach is also highly effective at removing mold and mildew. Mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water and use a spray bottle to apply the solution to areas with mold and mildew. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then scrub the area with a brush and rinse with water.
- Brightening White Clothes: Bleach is a powerful whitening agent that can help brighten and whiten white clothes. Simply add half a cup of bleach to a load of white clothes and wash as usual. Be sure to check the care label of your clothes to make sure they are safe for bleaching.
- Disinfecting Laundry: Bleach can also be used to disinfect laundry, especially if someone in your household is sick. Add half a cup of bleach to a load of laundry and wash as usual. This will help kill germs and bacteria on the clothes.
- Removing Stains: Bleach is also highly effective at removing tough stains such as coffee, tea, and wine. Mix one part bleach with nine parts water and apply the solution to the stain. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then rinse with water.
- Cleaning Bathroom and Kitchen Surfaces: Bleach is highly effective at cleaning bathroom and kitchen surfaces, including toilets, sinks, and countertops. Simply mix one part bleach with nine parts water and use a cloth or sponge to wipe down surfaces. Be sure to rinse surfaces thoroughly with water after cleaning.
- Cleaning and Disinfecting Cutting Boards: Cutting boards can harbor bacteria and germs, especially if they are used to cut raw meat. To clean and disinfect your cutting board, mix one tablespoon of bleach with one gallon of water and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the board. Rinse thoroughly with water.