Bleaching compounds in detergents added to enhance cleaning performance by whitening and brightening fabrics, remove stains, and disinfect surfaces. There are two main types of bleach used in detergents:
1. Chlorine Bleach
• Sodium hypochlorite – A powerful disinfectant and stain remover, commonly found in household bleach.
• Calcium hypochlorite and Sodium dichloroisocyanurate – Used in industrial cleaning and water treatment.
2. Oxygen Bleach
• Hydrogen peroxide – A milder bleach that breaks down into water and oxygen, making it eco-friendly.
• Sodium percarbonate – Releases oxygen when dissolved in water, effective for stain removal.
• Sodium perborate – Often used in laundry detergents for brightening clothes.
*Chlorine bleach is more potent and fast-acting but can be harsh on delicate fabrics and colored clothing, causing damage or discoloration if not used properly while oxygen bleach is gentler and safer for colored fabrics.