Most people simply call it "bleach", but there are actually two very different types.
Both can whiten, remove stains, clean and disinfect, but they work in different ways and have very different characteristics.
Understanding the difference can help you choose the right product for your home, your laundry and the environment.
Chlorine Bleach
When most people think of bleach, they're usually referring to chlorine bleach.
The active ingredient is Sodium Hypochlorite, which is diluted with water to create the liquid bleach commonly found in supermarkets. Most household bleach products are predominantly water with a relatively small percentage of active ingredient.
Chlorine bleach can:
- Remove stains
- Whiten fabrics
- Disinfect surfaces
- Remove some mould and mildew
However, it also comes with some limitations.
For many years it was the default solution for whitening and disinfecting, but today there are other options available.
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Oxybleach
Oxybleach works differently. Instead of chlorine, it relies on oxygen to clean, brighten and remove stains.
The liquid form is hydrogen peroxide, while the powder form is most commonly Sodium Percarbonate, which releases hydrogen peroxide and washing soda when mixed with water.
This combination helps lift stains, brighten fabrics and clean surfaces without the use of chlorine.
Why people choose oxybleach
- Effective stain remover
- Brightens whites
- Generally colour-safe
- No strong fumes or lingering odours
- Suitable for most washable fabrics
- More stable when stored in powder form
- Septic safe
- Breaks down into simpler compounds after use
- Because of its versatility, Sodium Percarbonate is often found in laundry soakers, stain removers, dishwasher powders and many DIY cleaning recipes.
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Which one should you choose?
Both products have a place and both are effective cleaners.
The question is really what you're trying to achieve.
If your goal is simply to whiten, remove stains and tackle everyday cleaning tasks, many people find that oxybleach provides the results they need without the strong smell, colour damage or handling concerns often associated with chlorine bleach.
That's why Sodium Percarbonate has become one of the most popular ingredients in the Under Your Sink toolkit.
