Understanding Bleach and Its Shelf Life
Bleach is a common household product used for cleaning, whitening, and disinfecting. But how long does bleach last? The answer is not that simple as there are various factors that can affect its shelf life.
Factors That Affect the Shelf Life of Bleach
The first thing that affects bleach’s shelf life is its type. There are different types of bleach, such as chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide bleach, and oxygen bleach. Each of them has a different shelf life ranging from 6 months to one year depending on the brand and storage conditions.
The second factor that affects bleach’s shelf life is its exposure to air and sunlight. When bleach is exposed to air or sunlight, it can start to break down and lose its effectiveness. Therefore, it is essential to store bleach in a cool, dry, and dark place away from direct sunlight and air.
How to Check If Your Bleach Is Still Effective?
If you’re not sure whether your bleach is still effective or not, you can perform a simple test to check it. Take a small amount of bleach and mix it with water. If the solution becomes cloudy or darker, it indicates that the bleach has lost its effectiveness and should be replaced.
What Happens When Bleach Expires?
When bleach expires or loses its effectiveness, it can no longer disinfect or whiten effectively. It can also emit an unpleasant odor and irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Therefore, it’s crucial to dispose of expired bleach properly.
You can dispose of expired bleach by diluting it with plenty of water and pouring it down the toilet or sink drain. However, make sure not to mix bleach with any other chemicals, as it can create hazardous fumes.
In conclusion, the shelf life of bleach depends on its type, brand, and storage conditions. It’s essential to store bleach properly and check its effectiveness from time to time to avoid using expired bleach that can cause harm.
