To purify water for long-term storage, you can chemically disinfect it using a common household product.
Chemical Disinfection of Storage Water
According to the provided reference, the most effective method for purifying water for long-term storage in thoroughly clean plastic or glass containers is chemical disinfection using unscented liquid chlorine bleach.
Steps for Chemical Disinfection
Here's how to do it:
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Use the right bleach: Make sure you're using unscented liquid chlorine bleach that contains 4% to 6% sodium hypochlorite. Examples include Clorox or Purex.
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Calculate the amount of bleach: Add 4 to 5 drops of the unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water.
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Mix thoroughly: After adding the bleach, ensure that the water is thoroughly mixed to distribute the disinfectant evenly.
Key Considerations
- Containers: Use only clean plastic or glass containers for water storage.
- Concentration: Always follow the recommended bleach dosage to ensure proper disinfection without adding excessive chemicals.
- Unscented: Using unscented bleach is essential, as scented bleach may introduce unwanted flavors and chemicals into your water.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type of Bleach | Unscented liquid chlorine bleach (4-6% sodium hypochlorite) |
| Amount of Bleach | 4-5 drops per gallon of water |
| Container Type | Clean plastic or glass |
| Mixing | Thoroughly mix after adding bleach |
By following these steps, you can effectively purify water for storage, ensuring you have safe drinking water available when needed.
