Sodium hypochlorite is a substance widely used as a surface disinfectant, but it can also be used to purify water for human use and consumption. Sodium hypochlorite is popularly known as bleach, bleach or candida, and is sold in a solution containing up to 2.5% sodium hypochlorite.
Sodium hypochlorite can be purchased at markets, grocery stores or pharmacies. Home tablets are available on the market, and a tablet is generally used to purify one liter of water, but you should pay attention to instructions on the type of sodium hypochlorite sold, as there is also hypochlorite sold in the form of salt, solutions or tablets used to purify cisterns, wells and for the treatment of swimming pools. In these situations, the concentration of the substance is much higher and can cause health problems.
- Sodium hypochlorite is used to clean surfaces.
- Lighten white clothing.
- Wash vegetables and also purify water for human consumption.
- Reducing the risk of contamination by viruses.
- Parasites and bacteria.
- Which cause diseases such as diarrhea.
- Hepatitis A.
- Cholera or rotavirus.
- See what diseases can occur after consuming contaminated water.
How sodium hypochlorite is used varies depending on the purpose of its use:
To purify water for human consumption, it is recommended to place 2 to 4 drops of sodium hypochlorite at a concentration of 2 to 2.5%, per 1 liter of water. This solution should be stored in a non-clear container, such as a clay pot or a thermos, for example.
It is important to keep the container covered and wait 30 minutes after the droplets have run to consume the water. This time is necessary for the disinfectant to take effect, maintaining all microorganisms. Purified water with sodium hypochlorite is used for drinking, cooking, washing vegetables, fruits and vegetables, washing dishes and bathing.
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To disinfect surfaces and eliminate viruses and bacteria, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends mixing 4 teaspoons of sodium hypochlorite (equivalent to 1 tablespoon) for each liter of water to use. This water should then be used to disinfect surfaces such as countertops, tables or the floor, for example.
When using sodium hypochlorite, it is very important to avoid direct contact with the substance, as it has a corrosive action, which can cause burns to the skin and eyes, when in high concentrations. Therefore, it is advisable to always wear gloves.
If sodium hypochlorite is accidentally used at doses higher than recommended, you should immediately wash the area exposed to running water and monitor symptoms such as itching and redness. When excessive doses of this substance are ingested, symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, coughing and shortness of breath, may occur, requiring urgent medical attention.
However, when sodium hypochlorite is used according to the recommendations, it is safe for health and even treated water can be offered to infants and children. In case of doubt, in the case of children, it is recommended to offer properly sealed mineral water.