Differences
In Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach and Oxygen Bleach LAUNDRY BLEACHES
Bleach is a popular laundry aid and helps detergents remove
soils and stains. Through oxidization, laundry bleaches convert
soil into more soluble, colorless or dispersible particles
that can be removed by detergent and carried away in the wash
water.
The two general oxidizing types are sodium hypochlorite (also
called chlorine or liquid household bleach) and oxygen. Sodium
hypochlorite and oxygen bleaches should not be used together.
The benefits of both are lost when combined.
Color removers, considered reducing bleaches, are also products
in the bleach category.
Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach
Liquid sodium hypochlorite bleach is the most widely used,
although a dry form is also available. Liquid sodium hypochlorite
bleach is made by combining chlorine with a solution of sodium
hydroxide to produce sodium hypochlorite, sodium chloride and
water. The sodium chloride is a by-product of the chemical reaction
and remains in the solution as an inactive ingredient. When
liquid sodium hypochlorite bleach is added to the wash, sodium
hypochlorite reacts with the soil and organic matter.
As a result, liquid household bleach:
1) Oxidizes soil and aids in its removal
2) Acts as a disinfectant on both bacteria and viruses likely
to be encountered in the home 3) Generally whitens fabrics
The bleaching action of sodium hypochlorite is essentially
completed in about 5 minutes, even less time in hot water, but
slightly longer in cold.
washing
product