What dilution of sodium hypochlorite solution is typically used for general disinfection?

The typical dilution of sodium hypochlorite solution used for general disinfection is 1:100. This dilution is effective for achieving disinfectant properties while ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of harmful effects associated with more concentrated solutions.

At this dilution, sodium hypochlorite retains sufficient antimicrobial activity to inactivate bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces, making it widely accepted in healthcare settings and food service environments for routine disinfection tasks. This concentration strikes a balance between being potent enough to kill pathogens and low enough to lessen any corrosiveness or potential harm to surfaces and human health.

Other dilutions like 1:10 or 1:25, although sometimes used in specific scenarios or applications, are generally considered too concentrated for routine disinfection and can lead to increased risks of skin irritation or damage to certain materials. The 1:50 dilution is stronger than what is usually recommended for general use, making 1:100 the standard choice for ensuring effective and safe disinfection practices.