Norovirus is a popular term these days as the disease shows an uptick in high traffic areas in North America. The symptoms: vomiting and diarrhea - and it spreads fast.
Can hypochlorous acid, this gentle, non-toxic disinfectant really have what it takes to kill something as tough as norovirus? Let’s unpack it.
What Exactly Is Norovirus and how is it related to hypochlorous acid?
Norovirus isn’t your run-of-the-mill germ. It’s a highly contagious virus that’s resistant to many disinfectants and can survive on surfaces for days. And let’s be real—it’s gross. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, and once someone catches it, they’re likely spreading it to others before they even feel sick. That’s why stopping norovirus requires an ultra-effective disinfectant.
Enter Hypochlorous Acid Spray
Hypochlorous acid is a naturally occurring compound your body produces to fight infection. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin yet tough on bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Over the last few years, HOCl has gained popularity as a disinfectant because it’s effective, eco-friendly, and safer than harsh chemicals like bleach. But can it stand up to something as stubborn as norovirus?
Can Hypochlorous Acid Kill Norovirus?
The short answer: yes—but it depends on the concentration.
Research has shown that hypochlorous acid can effectively inactivate norovirus, but it needs to be at the right strength. Norovirus is a hardy virus with a protective outer shell (called a capsid), making it more resistant than many other pathogens. Studies suggest that a concentration of at least 200 ppm (parts per million) of hypochlorous acid is necessary to effectively kill norovirus.
A 2016 study published in Food Microbiology found that hypochlorous acid at 200 ppm significantly reduced human norovirus surrogates on fresh produce surfaces within one minute. (Sánchez et al., 2016)
Another study in Applied and Environmental Microbiology concluded that HOCl inactivated feline calicivirus, a commonly used surrogate for norovirus, on contaminated surfaces. (Park et al., 2007)
Compared to bleach, HOCl offers similar effectiveness without the harsh fumes or corrosive effects. This makes it a great option for cleaning spaces where people are sensitive to chemicals, like daycare centers, healthcare facilities, and homes.
How to Use Hypochlorous Acid Spray Against Norovirus
Make Sure the Concentration is Right
Not all hypochlorous acid products are created equal. Check the label for the ppm concentration. For norovirus, aim for 200 ppm or higher.
Clean Surfaces First
Before disinfecting, wipe down surfaces to remove dirt and grime. HOCl works best on clean surfaces where it can directly attack the virus.
Let It Sit
Disinfectants need contact time to work. Spray HOCl generously on surfaces and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping.
Use It Regularly
During an outbreak or norovirus season, consistent use is key. Regularly disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
Don't have a hypochlorous acid spray? You can grab it on Amazon Canada and Amazon USA.
Why Choose Hypochlorous Acid Over Bleach?
Bleach has long been the go-to for killing norovirus, but it comes with downsides—strong fumes, potential skin irritation, and damage to surfaces over time. HOCl, on the other hand, is:
Non-toxic and safe for kids, pets, and those with respiratory issues.
Environmentally friendly, breaking down into harmless salt and water.
Versatile, usable on a wide range of surfaces without discoloration or damage.
The Bottom Line
Yes, hypochlorous acid can kill norovirus when used correctly, making it a fantastic option for those looking for a safer, gentler disinfectant. While bleach might still be a household name for hardcore disinfection, HOCl is proving to be just as effective without the drawbacks.
If you’re dealing with norovirus—or just want to stay ahead of it—consider giving hypochlorous acid spray a try. After all, who doesn’t want to stop the spread of germs while keeping things a little more natural?
Have you used HOCl for disinfecting? Let me know how it worked for you—especially if you were battling something as stubborn as norovirus!
Wanting to understand how hypochlorous acid spray can be used as a skincare ingredient with salicylic acid? Check out our blog here!
DISCLAIMER: This article is for general info only. Always check with a dermatologist to find what works best for your skin. Honeydew Labs products are for cosmetic use and aren’t a replacement for prescribed treatments.
References
Sánchez, G., Aznar, R., & Selma, M. V. (2016). Hypochlorous acid as a potential treatment for reducing human norovirus on fresh produce. Food Microbiology, 58, 52–58. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fm.2016.05.002
Park, G. W., Barclay, L., Macinga, D., Charbonneau, D., Pettigrew, C. A., & Vinjé, J. (2007). Inactivation of feline calicivirus, a surrogate for norovirus, on contaminated surfaces by disinfectants. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 73(8), 2748–2750. https://doi.org/10.1128/AEM.01521-07
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