Bleach vs. Alcohol: Which is Best Used When

by Ann Hayward 01/16/2022

Disinfectants are an integral part of every home’s arsenal. Whether you opt for more traditional disinfectants or prefer less abrasive versions, there are a few key points to remember. Here are the basic dos and don’ts of two of the most common disinfectants.

Chlorine Bleach

Most homeowners, renters and residents know that bleach has a plethora of uses. What many don’t know is there are two types of bleach. Chlorine bleach is the most common and well-known. The other is oxygen bleach.

Chlorine bleach is an incredible disinfectant, eradicating most, if not all, pathogens and residues it comes into contact with. When using as a household cleaner, bleach should be diluted with water. The amount of bleach needed to clean or sanitize will depend on what you’re hoping to disinfect. However, the basic rule is to use one cup of bleach per gallon of water. Another key pointer is to use bleach on nonporous surfaces (tile, ceramic, some masonry, etc.) to avoid any lasting negative effects such as odor or material degeneration.

If you opt to use bleach as a cleaner, remember:

Do not mix bleach types.
Do not mix with other cleaners.
Wear protective eye and hand gear.
Only use in very well-ventilated areas.
Do not ingest bleach. If ingested, follow the instructions on the label, and contact poison control immediately.
Read the label carefully.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Many homeowners and renters alike have felt the sting of random stickiness. Often, it’s hard to get rid of and smears across walls and other surfaces. And like most residents, you’ve probably reached for some form of alcohol to clean it off with ease. But did you know that various other forms of that same phenomenal cleaner exist and can be used as a disinfectant?

Isopropyl alcohol is a very effective sanitizer and disinfectant. It is another of the more abrasive cleaners that should be used in a well-ventilated area. It’s normally is safe to use on most screens and certain electronics. If you’re going to mix a solution, be sure that your isopropyl content is at least 60% pure (or mostly pure - adjust for slight impurity) to make it effective against pathogens. Only mix it with water unless directed otherwise by the label. As with bleach, do not mix isopropyl alcohol with other cleaners, and always read the instructions and warnings. Be sure to wear protective coverings on the hands and over the eyes. If you’ll be using it en masse, be sure to wear a protective face covering.

If you’re simply using a solution of it to wipe the screen of a cell phone with a cotton ball, or using a quick spritz on your glasses, you’ll often only need to wash your hands thoroughly and wait for it to dry before using the object again.

Both cleaners are fantastic sanitizers and disinfectants when heavy cleaning is needed. As always, read the labels, do not ingest either, stay protected and in a well-ventilated area.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]