To dilute disinfectant solution, follow the recommended ratios based on the specific product being used. A common recommendation, especially for surface disinfection, involves using a specific type of bleach solution.
Recommended Dilution for Surface Disinfection
According to standard guidelines, the recommended dilution is 1:100 for 5% sodium hypochlorite. This ratio is suitable for the disinfection of surfaces.
What Does 1:100 Dilution Mean?
A 1:100 dilution means you use 1 part of the concentrated solution (in this case, 5% sodium hypochlorite bleach) mixed with 99 parts of diluent (cold tap water).
This creates a final solution where the disinfectant is effectively diluted to the required concentration for killing germs on surfaces without being excessively strong.
Practical Steps for Diluting 5% Sodium Hypochlorite
Diluting 5% sodium hypochlorite to a 1:100 ratio involves measuring accurately. Here’s how to do it:
- Identify the disinfectant: Ensure you are using a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution (standard household bleach, check the label).
- Use cold tap water: The reference specifies using cold tap water for dilution.
- Measure the parts: For every 1 unit of bleach you use, measure 99 units of cold tap water. The "unit" can be any consistent measurement like milliliters (ml), ounces (oz), cups, etc.
Here are some examples based on the 1 part bleach to 99 parts water ratio:
| Bleach (5% Sodium Hypochlorite) | Cold Tap Water | Total Solution Approx. | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 ml | 99 ml | 100 ml | 1:100 |
| 10 ml | 990 ml | 1000 ml (1 Liter) | 1:100 |
| 1 Tablespoon | 99 Tablespoons | ~6.2 Cups | 1:100 |
| 1 Cup | 99 Cups | ~6.2 Gallons | 1:100 |
- Important Note: Always mix bleach and water in a well-ventilated area. Never mix bleach with other cleaning products, especially ammonia, as this can produce toxic fumes.
Key Takeaways
- For surface disinfection, a common recommendation is a 1:100 dilution using 5% sodium hypochlorite (bleach).
- This dilution is achieved by mixing 1 part bleach with 99 parts cold tap water.
- Always follow the specific instructions on the disinfectant product label, as recommendations can vary depending on the concentration and type of disinfectant.
Diluting disinfectant correctly ensures it is effective for killing pathogens while also being safe to use on surfaces.
