Myth vs. Fact

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.

woman pouring Clorox bleach into a measuring cup on a wood countertop

Myth:

"Doesn't household bleach affect sea life?"

Fact: Not to worry. Most used bleach turns into salt and water. The rest is safely treated by municipal waste plants.

A sea turtle swimming underwater with a visible shell pattern and flippers extended, against a backdrop of blue-green water.

Myth:

"I heard bleach can damage my equipment."

Fact: When used as directed, Clorox® bleach is safe to use on a wide range of hard, nonporous surfaces and materials.

Person with gray hair working on a mechanical device, wearing a plaid shirt, in an industrial setting.

Myth:

"Isn't there free chlorine in bleach?"

Fact: No, Clorox® bleach does not contain free chlorine. In fact, it’s derived from common table salt, sodium chloride.

Myth:

"Won't bleach form dangerous dioxins?"

Fact: When used for everyday cleaning and disinfecting, Clorox® bleach cannot produce harmful dioxins.

Person in protective suit and gloves collecting water sample with a test tube near a pond, with an open case of equipment beside them.

Myth:

"Isn't bleach actually a pesticide?"

Fact: While most bleach products are primarily disinfectants, some of them can in fact be used as pesticides.

Close-up of multiple containers filled with fresh, ripe strawberries.

Myth:

"Isn't bleach a carcinogenic chemical?"

Fact: No, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has concluded that bleach does not cause cancer.

Doctor showing a brain scan on a laptop to an elderly patient in a medical office.

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