How should bleach solutions be prepared?

The correct method for preparing bleach solutions involves a specific dilution ratio that ensures effectiveness for disinfection purposes while maintaining safety for users. The recommended ratio of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water creates a solution that achieves the desired concentration of approximately 1,000 to 5,000 ppm (parts per million) of sodium hypochlorite, which is effective for killing a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses.

This dilution is particularly used for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces in settings like pools, hospitals, and homes. It strikes a balance by providing sufficient strength to effectively eliminate harmful microorganisms while also reducing the potential for irritation or harm that can result from using a more concentrated solution.

In contrast, the other dilution ratios do not achieve the recommended levels for effective disinfection. A ratio of 1 part bleach to 5 parts water would be too concentrated in terms of bleach, potentially leading to surface degradation and respiratory irritation. Meanwhile, ratios of 1 part to 10 parts, and 1 part to 7 parts water, would produce solutions that are less effective for disinfection, as they would not reach the optimal concentration required for pathogen elimination. Thus, the chosen ratio of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water is critical