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Know the Truth About Bleach

At Clorox®, we’ve heard plenty of tall tales about bleach over the years, and we figured it’s time to put some of the rumors to rest. Let’s dispel a few common myths, and get to know America’s favorite disinfectant a little better.

  • Ocean Life

    The Myth:  "Doesn’t household bleach affect sea life?" The Fact: Not to worry. Most used bleach turns into salt and water. The rest is safely treated by municipal waste plants.

  • Machinery

    The Myth:  "I heard bleach can damage my equipment." The Fact: When used as directed, Clorox® bleach is safe to use on a wide range of hard, non-porous surfaces and materials.

  • Chlorine

    The Myth:  "Isn’t there free chlorine in bleach?" The Fact: No, Clorox® bleach does not contain free chlorine. In fact, it’s derived from common table salt, sodium chloride.

  • Dioxins

    The Myth:  "Won’t bleach form dangerous dioxins?" The Fact: When used for everyday cleaning and disinfecting, Clorox® bleach cannot produce harmful dioxins.

  • Pesticides

    The Myth:  "Isn’t bleach actually a pesticide?" The Fact: While most bleach products are primarily disinfectants, some of them can in fact be used as pesticides.

  • Carcinogens

    The Myth:  "Isn’t bleach a carcinogenic chemical?" The Fact: No, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has concluded that bleach does not cause cancer.

See What Bleach Can Do

Explore articles & cleaning tips about cleaning with Clorox Bleach See All the Articles

Disinfect Germy Hotspots

  • Bathtubs

  • Sink

  • Countertops

  • Refrigerators and Coolers

  • Doorknobs

  • Light Switches

  • Remote Controls

Remove Mold & Mildew

  • Bathtubs

  • Bathroom Tiles

  • Washing Machines

  • House Siding

  • Patio Furniture

Sanitize Household Surfaces

  • Baby Bottles

  • Teething Rings

  • Rubber Duckies

  • High Chairs

  • Sippy Cups