Household liquid bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is effective for cleaning clothes, sanitising spills, killing bacteria, and whitening fabrics. But in order to be used safely, bleach must be diluted with water, says Kathryn Watson of Healthline.com. “The recommended bleach solution for home use is 1 part bleach to 10 parts water,” she added.
It is advised to cleanse your skin immediately with water if it has come into contact with undiluted bleach.
Bleach spill on your skin
- Remove any jewellery or clothes that could have come in contact with the bleach, and clean it off later. Address your skin as your primary concern.
- Sponge the area with something made of absorbent material, such as a thick wet washcloth, and wring the excess water into a sink.
- If you have rubber gloves, put them on while you clean the bleach off your skin. Throw the gloves away and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water when you are done rinsing the bleach off of your skin.
- Try to avoid breathing in the scent of the bleach as you cleanse the affected area, and be especially careful not to touch your forehead, nose, or eyes while you’re cleaning bleach.
When to seek medical attention
If your skin has been burned by bleach, you need to see a doctor. Bleach burns can be recognised by painful red welts. If you have spilt bleach on an area of skin that’s more than 3 inches in diameter, you may be at risk for a bleach burn.
Pain or itching that persists for more than three hours after bleach exposure should be monitored carefully. Any symptoms of shock should prompt a visit to the emergency room. These symptoms include:
- nausea
- fainting
- pale complexion
- dizziness
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