At The Ready Store, we often get asked about the safety of using household bleach to purify water storage. While household bleach is not manufactured with human consumption in mind and contains chemicals that can be unsafe, it can be used in emergency situations if no other options are available.
Using straight household bleach to purify stored water is not recommended if you have better options. Instead, consider purchasing a water treatment solution that is guaranteed safe for consumption. These treatments can purify water for up to 5 years, eliminating the need for frequent changes and avoiding the risks of over-contamination.
One safe option is sodium hypochlorite, a type of bleach that is specifically manufactured for human consumption and approved by the EPA.
Many people use unscented household bleach for water storage, but this method is not recommended due to potential dangers. Instead, opt for a bleach product that has been certified for consumption.
Steps for Using Household Bleach to Purify Water
If you decide to use household bleach, follow these guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):
- Wash the storage container with dishwashing soap and water, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Sanitize the container with a solution made by mixing 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid household bleach in one quart of water.
- Cover the container and shake it so that the bleach solution touches all interior surfaces.
- Wait at least 30 seconds, then pour out the sanitizing solution.
- Allow the container to air-dry or rinse with clean, safe water.
The CDC advises using household bleach only if bottled water or boiling is impractical, and only in small quantities.
Bleach Concentration Chart
Check the label for the percentage of sodium hypochlorite in the bleach. Here is a chart to help determine the correct amount to use:
| Adding Bleach to Water Storage | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| % Sodium Hypochlorite | Add Bleach/Per | ||
| 1% | 10 drops / quart - 40 drops/gallon | ||
| 4-6% | 2 drops / quart - 8 drops/gallon | ||
| 7-10% | 1 drop / quart - 4 drops/gallon | ||
| Unknown | 10 drops/ quart – 40 drops/gallon | ||
| If the water is cloudy, murky, colored, or very cold, double the amount of bleach added. | |||
Let the water stand for 30 minutes before using it. Proper water purification is crucial, so consider stocking up on water purification and filtration systems.
