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1. Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)

Best For: White cotton/linen with tough stains (e.g., sweat, food).

How It Works: Releases chlorine to oxidize stains and pigments.

Pros: Fast, powerful whitening; kills bacteria/viruses.

Cons:

• Harsh on fibers (weakens cotton over time).
• Avoid on silk, wool, spandex, or colors (causes yellowing/holes).
• Mixing with ammonia or acids produces toxic chloramine gas.

Usage Tip: Dilute 1:20 with water, soak for 15 minutes max.

2. Oxygen Bleach (Hydrogen Peroxide)

Best For: Colors, delicates, or eco-conscious users.

How It Works: Releases oxygen to lift stains without harsh chemicals.

Pros: Safe for most fabrics; biodegradable; no toxic fumes.

Cons: Slower than chlorine; needs warm water (>140°F/60°C) to activate.

Boost Effectiveness: Use with TAED (tetraacetylethylenediamine), a European activator that works in cold water.

3. Optical Brighteners

Best For: Enhancing “perceived” whiteness in dingy fabrics.

How It Works: Absorbs UV light and re-emits blue light, masking yellowing.

Pros: Safe for all fabrics; no damage.

Cons: Doesn’t remove stains—just makes clothes look whiter.

4. Natural Alternatives

Lemon Juice + Sun: Citric acid + UV light naturally bleaches stains.

Baking Soda Paste: Mild abrasive for surface stains; soak overnight.

Best For: Light stains or maintenance between washes.

Safety Rules

Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or acids (toxic gas risk).

Test first: Apply diluted bleach to a hidden seam.

Ventilate: Work in a breezy area; wear gloves/goggles.

Storage: Keep bleach in a cool, dark place (heat degrades it).

Quick Reference Chart

Chemical	Best Use	Avoid For
Chlorine Bleach	White cotton stains	Silk, wool, colors, spandex
Oxygen Bleach	Colors, delicates	Heavy mud/blood stains
Optical Brighteners	Yellowed whites	None (cosmetic effect)
Lemon Juice	Mild sun-faded stains	Dark colors (may lighten)