Bleach isn’t just a cleaner, it’s a game-changer that leaves everything sparkling and fresh. It can kill germs and bacteria, including mold, viruses, and mildew. Bleach is considered the most frequently used reagent for disinfecting substances, especially during the rainy season when many diseases start to spread or when dealing with stubborn grime.

But using bleach isn’t that simple. It’s a powerful reagent that needs to be properly used to make it work. 

If you ever wonder or want to know how to use bleach safely at home, well you are not alone. This article will take you to the dos and don’ts’ of using bleach around your home. Let’s begin.

Do’s of Using Bleach for Cleaning

Your house got a stained & stinky laundry? Bleach can work like magic on the surface. But it can also become a curse if used incorrectly.

Here are the right methods to use bleach around your home: 

Dilute Properly

Start by diluting the bleach, as it’s very intense and strong for cleaning stuff. Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water for general home cleaning.

Wear Protective Gear

Bleach can damage the outer layer of the skin.  Therefore, use gloves and avoid direct contact with skin. 

Test Before Using

Bleach is a highly reactive reagent, it can discolor some colored fabrics and countertops, causing damage. Try a small area first to avoid discoloration or damage. 

Store Safely

As it’s a very reactive reagent, keep bleach in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and heat.

Ventilate the Area

Chloramine, a toxic gas emitted by bleach, poses respiratory risks and can cause breathing difficulties. To minimize exposure, work in well-ventilated areas.

Don’ts of Bleach Cleaning 

Now let us talk about the don’ts. These mistakes can cost you a lifetime of unresolved problems. 

Never mix with ammonia or vinegar. 

Never mix the bleach with any other reactive reagents like Ammonia or Vinegar, it generates harmful gases that may corrupt your lungs and may cause serious problems. 

Avoid using certain materials. 

Wood, granite, marble, and metals can be damaged if exposed to bleach. Stay away from using bleach on these materials. Bleach works well on tiles and porcelain. 

Don’t use undiluted bleach. 

It’s too harsh and can cause breathing problems. Its reaction can cause serious respiratory damage.

Keep away from skin and pets. 

Bleach can irritate and cause inflammation. So keep it away from your kids and pets. Always wear protective gear. 

Safe Cleaning Methods for Every Room

Let’s break it down how to use bleach in every room:

Bathroom

For the bathroom, take 1 cup of bleach reagent and mix it with a gallon of water to disinfect sinks, tubes, and tiles. 

Kitchen

Use diluted bleach on countertops and cutting boards. Rinse thoroughly to avoid contamination.

Bedroom & Living Room

Use diluted bleach on doorknobs and light switches. Avoid soft fabrics.

Laundry

Use bleach to brighten white clothes. Avoid colored fabrics and wool.

Are you scared to use bleach in your home? Don’t worry, Vella can help you. Our trained professionals ensure that your home gets cleaned using eco-friendly solutions making it safe for every material in the house. If you are from Fortworth, book a slot and let us take care of the rest. 

Safety Tips for Household Cleaning

Tip 1: Read labels carefully and follow manufacturer instructions. The labels by the manufacturer will always mention the proportion of the chemical used. 

Tip 2: The ideal method of using bleach is with cold water. Hot water reduces bleach effectiveness.

Tip 3: Rinse surfaces after cleaning with bleach. This helps prevent residue buildup.

Tip 4: Keep the doors of a bathroom or kitchen open while using bleach to clean the floor. This reduces exposure to fumes.

If you want to ensure a safe and sound cleaning, let Vella in Austin know! We are happy to clean your home and make it shine. We are one of the top rated home cleaning services in Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth. 

Eco-Friendly & Safer Alternatives

Not sure of bleach? Let’s look at some alternative non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning solutions:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: A versatile disinfectant that breaks down into water and oxygen, leaving no harmful residue. Use it to whiten laundry or sanitize surfaces effectively.
• White Vinegar & Baking Soda: A natural duo for cleaning; vinegar disinfects while baking soda cuts through grime and brightens fabrics.
• Castile Soap & Essential Oils: Gentle yet effective for cleaning, with essential oils adding a fresh, non-toxic scent.
• Lemon Juice: A natural bleaching agent that brightens whites and removes stains while leaving a pleasant citrus aroma.
• Bio Bleach: Made with biodegradable ingredients like sodium percarbonate, it’s a safer, eco-friendly alternative for tough stains and whitening.
• Branch Basics’ Cleaning Solution: They create their cleaning solutions with non-toxic ingredients making it a perfect alternative to effective and safe cleaning. 

Common Myths About Using Bleach for Cleaning

Myth 1 – “Bleach Cleans Everything” 

Bleach can never clean the entire dirt or grease. It will always remain residues on the surface. The claim regarding this is false.

Myth 2– “The Stronger, the Better” 

Absolutely not! The more the bleach we use on the surface the more residues it leaves on the surface. It can also damage the surface for ever. 

Myth 3- “Bleach Smell Means It’s Working”

The more it smells the more gas it produces while it is breaking down the organic matter, so it’s better to use it according to the label on the bottle.

Final Thoughts: Cleaning with Bleach the Right Way

As we conclude, we must emphasize that bleach is not an ideal cleaning agent, but it can be used judiciously if the proper guidelines are followed. Mixing bleach with certain chemicals, such as ammonia, can produce hazardous gases. We advise against using bleach on wood, stainless steel, grout, painted surfaces, or surfaces near plants. 

Additionally, during laundry, it is crucial to avoid using bleach on wool, silk, mohair, leather, or spandex. Bleach can cause skin and eye irritation. 

If you find yourself overwhelmed by these considerations, we recommend seeking professional assistance. Vella in Texas offers expert housekeeping services to alleviate the stress of cleaning. You can book a session today and let us handle the cleaning for you.

Mason jars are undeniably a must-have in every kitchen, thanks to their versatile range of uses. They can be used for food preservation, dry storage, and beverages. They are perfect for canning homemade jams, pickles, and sauces while also keeping pantry staples like grains and coffee fresh. 

The proper way to clean the jars helps ensure they are in top shape for years. Right cleaning removes residue and proper sterilization helps to kill bacteria and mold. Read on to learn about various sterilization techniques, such as boiling, oven heating, dishwasher cycles, and more. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Water Bath Sterilization

Step 1: Wash Jars Thoroughly

Begin by washing all surfaces of the jars using hot, soapy water and a sponge. Ensure they are thoroughly rinsed with warm water.

Step 2: Prepare a Large Pot

Fill a large pot with water and place a metal rack at the bottom to prevent the jars from coming into contact with the pot’s surface.

Step 3: Submerge the jars

Carefully place the jars into the pot, ensuring they are completely submerged by at least one inch of water.

Step 4: Boiling Process

Bring the water to a rolling boil.

Step 5: Duration of Boiling

Boil the jars for 10 to 15 minutes. Note that the boiling time may need to be adjusted for higher altitudes. 

Step 6: Remove Carefully

Use jar tongs to carefully lift the jars out of the pot and place them on a clean towel to dry.

For further help, see USDA Home Canning Guidelines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the washing step: Dirt and grease will get in the way of sterilization.
• Not boiling long enough: Jars need to sit, submerged, in boiling water for at least 10 minutes, or longer.
• Poor treatment of jars after sterilization: Touching the insides or rims of the jars just after the sterilization process can reintroduce bacteria. Use sterilized tongs instead.
• Filling jars when they’re wet: Moisture encourages mold. Air-dry jars completely and leave them to dry before using.

Deep cleaning your kitchen is not an easy task. You need to know the right cleaning methods and have eco-friendly solutions to ensure your family is safe. At Vella, we only use non-toxic products like Bon Ami to clean the homes. 

There are various ways to clean a mason jar. Let’s look at how we can sterilize the jars using a microwave. 

How to Sterilize Glass Jars in the Oven (Safe or Not?)

Oven sterilization involves placing clean jars on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at approximately 275°F to kill bacteria using dry heat. This method effectively sanitizes jars for canning purposes. 

How to Use the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: First, preheat the oven by setting it to 275°F (135°C).

Step 2: Then place jars on a baking sheet. Spread them out evenly to let heat circulate.

Step 3: Heat for 20 minutes. This ensures complete sterilization.

Step 4: Switch off the oven and allow jars to cool slowly to avoid cracking.

Safety Warnings

• Exceeding the 275°F limit is unsafe. Such temperatures can weaken glass, making jars susceptible to breaking.
• Sudden temperature shifts should be avoided. Putting hot jars on cold surfaces can lead to cracking.

For comprehensive guidance on safe canning practices, refer to the National Center for Home Food Preservation. 

If you think you are too overwhelmed to deep clean your kitchen, let Vella help you. We help deep clean your home with eco-friendly solutions to bring back that shine and peace. If you are in Dallas, book us today. 

How to Prepare Mason Jars for Storage (Beyond Just Cleaning)

Sterilizing jars for storage requires more effort than just simply cleaning them. They need to be protected from contamination until used. 

Cleaning vs. Sterilizing

• Cleaning involves removing dirt, dust, or any residue.
• Sterilizing is getting rid of bacteria, mildew, and other germs.

Preparing Jars for Storage

• For dry storage: Ensure that the jars are completely dry to avoid the growth of mold.
• For liquid storage: Use airtight lids to avoid contamination.

Properly Storing Sterilized Jars

• Store them in a clean and dry place. Mold can appear if stored in areas that are too moist.
• Store them with lids on. This stops dust and bacteria from entering the jar.
• Avoid stacking. Stacking jars increases the chances of them breaking.

Sterilization Tips for Canning Jars Using a Dishwasher

Dishwashers can be used to sterilize jars, provided the conditions are correct. Although it is not as comprehensive as boiling, it is ideal for pre-cleaning the jars before canning.

Best Dishwasher Settings

• Use the water cycle with the highest temperature. Sanitation mode or high heat setting is perfect.
• Do not use detergent. Soap residue can pose a risk to food safety.
• Turn on the heated dried cycle. This stops moisture from building up inside jars.

Additional Steps

• Inspect for food or grease before use.
• If more sanitation is needed, follow up with boiling water.

To ensure that your mason jars are clean, add them to your seasonal kitchen cleaning checklist. In this way, it is never forgotten. 

Alternatives: Steam & Microwave

These methods are recommended for those who do not have sufficient time. They work well with small batches but are not suitable for large-scale canning.

Using the microwave for quick sterilization

• Rinse the jars properly: Make sure to rinse the jars. Ensure that there is no leftover food.
• Add Water: Take each jar and pour approximately one inch of water. 
• Microwave for 2 minutes: This kills any bacteria with the steam. 
• Air Dry: Place the jars upside down on a clean towel to get rid of excess moisture. 

Steam Sterilization Pros and Cons

• Pros: It is appropriate for a small quantity of jars, as it can be done quickly and efficiently.  
• Cons: This method may not eliminate all bacteria, and it is less practical for large-scale canning projects due to its limited capacity.

Is it necessary to sterilize the lids and bands? 

Jar lids and rings need deep cleaning, however, they are hard to sanitize. Overheating the rubber seal can impact its integrity.

How to Clean the Lids

• Hot soapy water is a great start. 
• If necessary they can be boiled for 1-2 minutes. 
• Be sure to let them dry before using. 

Best Practices for Reusing vs. Replacing Lids

For Canning: Avoid reusing lids to ensure a proper vacuum seal. Reusing old lids increases the risk of food spoilage.

For Dry Storage: Ensure that the lids of your mason jars are not bent, rusted, or damaged. As long as they are not damaged, they are fit to be reused for dry storage.

Keeping Your Kitchen Spotless: The Final Step

Kitchen hygiene involves an array of services regarding cleaning. Trying to maintain a perfectly clean kitchen can be challenging if proper deep cleaning does not take place. Regular deep cleaning helps prevent cross-contamination and keeps food preparation areas hygienic.

Want a spotless kitchen? Book a deep cleaning with Vella Cleaning Service.