If you dilute bleach, is it still effective for cleaning?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends diluting bleach at a ratio of 5 tablespoons (one-third cup) per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water. This solution not only cleans; it also disinfects, killing germs including the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
However, Berliet cautions against using hot water, because it can release a harmful chlorine gas. You should also avoid mixing bleach with household items such as vinegar, ammonia, and alcohol. When ammonia is mixed with bleach, for instance, it converts the chlorine in the bleach to chloramine gas. The fumes from such gas can trigger coughing, shortness of breath, and even pneumonia. Mixing vinegar with bleach will create chlorine gas, which can cause everything from chest pain and vomiting to death. When making a bleach solution, it’s best to do so outside or in a room that has plenty of ventilation.
