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