Bleach recommended
for cleaning up after a natural disaster

After a natural disaster comes confusion about what to use to clean up buildings and belongings. Be certain to use a disinfectant to kill germs that can spread disease.

The world’s leading public health agencies recommend using bleach to disinfect property damaged by floods. The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise using bleach for controlling the spread of germs that can cause infections and other health threats.

Bleach does not harm the environment. It begins and ends as salt water. About 95 percent to 98 percent of household bleach quickly breaks down during household use. The remaining two percent to five percent is effectively treated by sewer or septic systems.

Bleach does not contaminate ground water because it breaks down to salt and water in municipal sewage treatment plants or in septic systems.

To ensure that things are as clean and safe as possible, the American Chemistry Council and other agencies recommend following these simple, but important, cleaning tips:

    • Act quickly to avoid mildew and odor.
    • Remove all loose dirt and debris.
    • Use a househod bleach disinfecting solution (3/4 cup of household liquid bleach to 1 gallon of water) to wash any walls, floors, or other surfaces touched by flood waters.
    • Keep area wet for 2 minutes (2 to 10 minutes for exterior areas), then rinse thoroughly and dry.

In case of a flood, it is important to remember that not all water damage is visible. Since flood water may contain bacteria that can cause serious illnesses, it is vital to clean and disinfect everything that may have been contaminated.

Clorox proudly supports the American Red Cross

For generations, The Clorox Company has proudly supported the American Red Cross, donating money and products to help with its disaster relief efforts. This year, Clorox has pledged $1 million to help the American Red Cross continue its lifesaving programs.