Does Hypochlorous Acid Spray Bleach Fabric? Everything You Need to Know
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is one of those things you hear about and think, Wait, why didn’t I know about this sooner? It’s gentle, non-toxic, and seems like it can do just about everything—cleaning, skincare, disinfecting—you name it. But as handy as it is, it’s normal to have some reservations. Specifically, you might be wondering: Is it safe for fabrics? Will it bleach my clothes or upholstery?
Well, let’s get this out of the way first: HOCl probably won’t bleach your fabric. That said, like most things in life, there are a few caveats. Let’s break it down together and figure out exactly when (if ever) you need to be cautious.
What Is Hypochlorous Acid Anyway?
Let’s start with the basics because, honestly, “hypochlorous acid” sounds a little intimidating. In reality, it’s a compound your own body makes. Yes, really! It’s part of your immune response, helping to fight off bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
The HOCl you find in spray bottles is made by combining water, salt, and electricity—a process called electrolysis. The result is a mild acid with surprisingly strong antimicrobial properties. And because it’s so gentle, people use it for all kinds of things, from sanitizing surfaces to treating acne.
But when it comes to fabric, the question still stands: will HOCl ruin it? The short answer is no. Hypochlorous acid doesn't bleach fabric like chlorine bleach does.
One of the reasons is because it is skin safe and not harsh. Way less harsh than the bleach you’d use for whitening clothes.
Neutral pH: HOCl is typically formulated at a neutral or slightly acidic pH, which makes it much gentler on materials. Compare that to traditional bleach, which is highly alkaline and can strip color and weaken fibers.
For the most part, you can spray hypochlorous acid on clothes without worrying! But if you want to be extra careful, you can dilute if you want to be extra careful!
Blot, Don’t Soak: When applying HOCl to fabric, lightly mist the area and blot it with a clean cloth.
Rinse Washable Fabrics: If you’re using HOCl on clothes or linens, rinse them afterward to remove any residue.
Avoid Prolonged Contact: Don’t leave HOCl sitting on fabric for hours, especially if the material is delicate or light-colored.
Final Verdict: Does HOCl Bleach Fabric?
So, here’s the deal: No, hypochlorous acid doesn’t bleach fabric—at least not in the way traditional bleach does. It’s much gentler, making it safe for most materials. Whether you’re disinfecting upholstery, deodorizing gym bags, or freshening up laundry, HOCl is a reliable and versatile option.
If you’re ready to give it a try, check out our hypochlorous acid spray on Amazon Canada and Amazon USA.
Wondering if hypochlorous acid ever expires? Check out our in-depth blog on the expiration process and details here.