Living in a sunny city like Jacksonville, FL, has its benefits. But with warm weather also comes an increased risk of germs and bacteria multiplying –every 10°F temperature rise increases Gram-negative bacterial infections by 6%.
This is where germicidal bleach products come in. They are your powerful allies in tackling bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can thrive in warm and humid environments. As a result, they can help you keep a clean, healthy home.
Incorporating germicidal cleaning solutions into your cleaning routine can be a game-changer if you’re looking for ways to safeguard your loved one’s health. Below is a guide on everything you need to know about germicidal products.
What Are Germicidal Bleach Products?
Germicidal bleach is no ordinary household bleach. It boasts a higher concentration of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) — usually around 8.25% compared to the 5.25% found in regular bleach. This makes it EPA-registered to kill a wider range of germs, including:
- Fungi: Mold and mildew spores
- Viruses: Norovirus, Influenza A & B
- Bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Salmonella, E. coli
Germicidal bleach goes beyond staple household cleaning. They’re formulated to disinfect surfaces, preventing the spread of disease.
Effective Uses of Germicidal Bleach
Living in a clean home is about creating a healthy and comfy space for you and your loved ones. Germicidal bleach can be a powerful tool in your cleaning arsenal. Let’s explore some of the most effective bleach uses in your Jacksonville home!
Disinfecting Surfaces
Your kitchen and bathroom surfaces can be a breeding ground for germs. These germs love to linger on hard, non-porous surfaces like countertops, sinks, and tiles. This is why you need germicidal bleach. Use it to clean and disinfect hard, non-porous surfaces — it can help eliminate bacteria and viruses that can cause illness.
For an effective clean, spray the bleach solution generously on your surfaces. Let it sit for the contact time specified on the label — around 10 minutes. This allows the bleach enough time to work its magic and kill germs.
Laundry Disinfection
Sometimes, cleaning your laundry goes beyond just eliminating dirt and sweat. If you’ve been battling a sickness and need to clean the contaminated clothes, germicidal bleach can be a lifesaver.
Before using germicidal bleach, always check the care label of your clothes. This bleach can damage some fabrics. For optimal germ-killing power, wash your laundry with hot water.
Mold and Mildew Removal
Do you have pesky black spots in your bathroom ceiling and shower grout?
Having mold and mildew in your Jacksonville home is not only unsightly but it also poses health risks. Luckily, germicidal bleach can come to the rescue.
It is effective in removing mold and mildew from surfaces.
First, scrub the affected area with a stiff brush and soapy water. Once the area is clean, prepare a diluted bleach solution and spray it onto the moldy area.
Let it sit for the recommended contact time before you wash it off. The bleach’s disinfecting properties help kill the fungal spores and prevent regrowth.
Sanitizing Drinking Water
You can use germicidal bleach in emergencies where your water supply is compromised. Only use it as a last resort.
Ensure you strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution. Using too much bleach can be dangerous. After this, allow the water to sit for the specified contact time to ensure proper disinfection.
Once the contact time is complete, purify the water further by boiling it for at least one minute. If you’re unsure about using bleach to purify water, consult with a professional.
Garbage Disposal Deodorization
While the garbage disposal is a convenient invention, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Germicidal bleach can help here too. Start with running cold water and grinding up any leftover food particles.
Once done, pour a diluted germicidal bleach solution down the drain after grinding. This will help eliminate odors and kill any lingering germs.
Pet Cleaning
Your furry brings joy into your home. However, pet accidents and dander can invite bacteria into your home. Fortunately, you can use germicidal home cleaning products to keep pet areas disinfected.
Create a diluted bleach solution and use it to clean pet bedding, toys, and spaces they play around. Remember to always remove your pet from the area before cleaning.
Benefits of Using Germicidal Bleach in Jacksonville
Germicidal bleach is a cleaning product that truly delivers. Let’s look at the benefits you can get from using germicidal disinfectant products in Jacksonville.
Effective Disinfection
Registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), germicidal bleach boasts serious germ-killing power. It can eliminate a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This makes it ideal for disinfecting high-touch surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and more.
Reduces Risk of Illness
Germs are often the culprits of colds or flu around your home. But with germicidal bleach in your cleaning arsenal, you can reduce your risk of getting sick.
Improves Indoor Air Quality
Germs and bacteria can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Using germicidal bleach helps reduce airborne germs, leading to good indoor air quality for your loved ones.
Household Hygiene Tips for Using Germicidal Bleach
While germicidal bleach products are beneficial, ensure you handle them with care. Consider the tips below to ensure safe and effective use.
Dilute the Bleach
Always dilute your germicidal bleach according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Over-concentration can damage your surfaces. What’s more, it can cause skin irritation.
Ensure Ventilation During Use
Open windows and doors while using germicidal bleach products. It ensures proper ventilation by diluting the concentration of the fumes and reducing the risk of exposure to harmful levels.
Wear Protective Gear During Use
Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling bleach. This will help protect your skin and eyes from irritation.
Store Safely
Keep germicidal bleach products out of reach of children and pets. Ensure you store them in their original containers in a cool, dark place.
Protect Your Family With Effective Germicidal Bleach Disinfection in Jacksonville
Germicidal bleach products are a valuable addition to your home cleaning routine. Their powerful disinfectant properties make them an essential tool for maintaining household hygiene.
Need help with your home maintenance? Look no further than Weather Engineers — we have a long-standing reputation for keeping Jacksonville homes safe and healthy. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation.
