What is another name for household bleach?

Household bleach is commonly referred to as sodium hypochlorite. This is a chemical compound that serves as a disinfectant and is widely used for whitening laundry, disinfecting surfaces, and sanitizing various materials. The sodium hypochlorite solution typically contains around 5-6% sodium hypochlorite in water, making it effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Recognizing the chemical composition of bleach is crucial for safe handling and understanding its applications. Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is primarily used as a leavening agent in cooking and is not a disinfectant. Chlorine dioxide is a compound that is used for water treatment and disinfection but is distinct from household bleach. Hydrogen peroxide is another disinfectant but operates through a different mechanism and is not classified as bleach.