Key Steps:
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Use oxygen bleach for stain removal as it breaks down dirt, odours and germs.
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Oxygen bleach should not be used on delicate fabrics.
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There are important differences between oxygen bleach and chlorine bleach that you should be aware of.
Oxygen bleach is a cleaning agent that can be particularly effective in tackling stains and brightening clothes in the laundry. Eco-friendly and safe to use for a variety of tasks, oxygen bleach is a staple of many a household cleaning cupboard. But what exactly is it made of and how can it be used in your wash cycle?
Oxygen bleach is a handy addition to your normal washing detergent and is also useful for other household cleaning tasks, such as washing wooden decking. Always check the manufacturer’s directions before using on a new surface, and test the product in a small area first.
What is Oxygen Bleach?
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Oxygen bleach is the common term for sodium percarbonate, a compound of natural soda crystals and hydrogen peroxide.
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Oxygen bleach is widely available in detergents and other cleaning products and comes in a solid, powder-like form, usually diluted in water before use.
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Once oxygen bleach comes in contact with water, a chemical reaction occurs and the substance releases oxygen.
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Oxygen bleach is often used in stain removal, as the oxygen bubbles help to break down dirt, odours, and germs.
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Oxygen bleach powder is considered environmentally friendly, as the only by-product is soda ash – a non-toxic substance, safe for the water supply.
How to Use Oxygen Bleach Powder in Your Laundry
Oxygen bleach is best for tackling organic stains on clothing, such as food and drink, grass, dirt, and bodily fluids. Though it can reduce the appearance of grease and synthetic stains, it may not always remove them completely.
How to use Oxygen Bleach as a Pre-Wash Treatment:
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Mix one to two tablespoons in a gallon of water.
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Leave stained items to soak for up to an hour.
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Tough or old stains can be soaked overnight, or treated with an additional two tablespoons of oxygen bleach in the pre-wash solution.
How to use Oxygen Bleach as a Brightener:
Oxygen bleach powder can also be employed routinely as a brightening agent.
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Add a tablespoon or scoop to your wash along with your normal detergent.
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Be sure to refer to the product’s instructions.
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Oxygen bleach should not be used on delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
What’s the Difference Between Chlorine Bleach and Oxygen Bleach?
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Chlorine bleach is a liquid product mainly composed of sodium hypochlorite.
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Chlorine bleach is an effective disinfectant that can also be used in the treatment of stubborn stains and various other jobs around the home.
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Chlorine bleach is a much more corrosive substance than oxygen bleach and should be handled with care and kept away from children.
Two important differences to remember are:
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Oxygen bleach is safer to use on coloured fabrics than chlorine bleach.
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Oxygen bleach powder can be mixed with other detergents, but it is not safe to do this with chlorine bleach.
Stain Removal with Oxygen Bleach
Stain removal with oxygen bleach is a highly effective and versatile laundry technique that can help rescue your clothes from stubborn stains. Here's how to make the most of it:
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Identify the Stain Type: Determine the type of stain you're dealing with, as different stains require specific treatment. Common categories include protein-based (like blood or milk), oil-based (like grease or makeup), and tannin-based (like coffee or wine).
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Prepare the Solution: Follow the package instructions to create an oxygen bleach solution. Typically, you'll dissolve the powder in warm water to activate it.
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Pre-Treat the Stain: Apply the oxygen bleach solution directly to the stain, ensuring it's well-saturated. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, but don't let it dry on the fabric.
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Wash as Usual: Launder the stained garment as usual, following the care label instructions. Use the warmest water temperature that's safe for the fabric.
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Check Before Drying: After washing, check the stain's status. If it's still visible, avoid heat-drying the item, as this can set the stain. Instead, repeat the treatment and wash again.
Oxygen bleach is generally color-safe and suitable for a wide range of fabrics. It's an excellent tool to have in your laundry arsenal for tackling a variety of stains effectively.
How Else Can I Use Oxygen Bleach?
Oxygen bleach is a versatile product and can also be used on a variety of materials from plastic to wood. It’s often employed in household tasks – for example, for sanitising tools, or cleaning bins and pet litter trays. Remember to always test applications of oxygen bleach on a small area first, and consult the manufacturer’s instructions for detailed information on where and how you can use their product.
Oxygen bleach really is a versatile product once you know how to use it. This simple guide is a great way to get more out of this household staple – why not give it a try?
