Chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is a powerful whitening and disinfecting agent. The classic "bleach" most people think of.
Properties
Advantages:
- Powerful whitening
- Effective disinfectant
- Kills bacteria, viruses, mould
- Removes stubborn stains
- Relatively inexpensive
Disadvantages:
- Destroys colour (not colour-safe)
- Can weaken fibres over time
- Harsh chemical smell
- Environmental concerns
- Can damage some materials
In Towel Care
Use chlorine bleach for:
- Whitening white cotton towels
- Sanitising/disinfecting
- Removing mildew stains (on whites)
Never use on:
- Coloured towels (destroys colour)
- Silk, wool, or protein fibres
- Some synthetic blends
Dilution Matters
Always dilute chlorine bleach:
- Too strong damages fibres
- Follow product instructions
- Don't mix with other chemicals (dangerous)
Hotel/Hospital Standard
Hotels and hospitals use chlorine bleach because:
- Effective sanitisation
- White towels can handle it
- Consistent results
- Regulatory compliance
This is why hotel towels are white - they need bleaching.
Related Terms
- Oxygen bleach - Gentler alternative
- Bleach-safe - Towel property
- Chlorine resistant - Pool towel feature