An Equally Effective but Better Tolerated Formulation of Bleach

BACKGROUND: Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is an effective sporicidal disinfectant, but it is corrosive to many materials, irritating to some healthcare personnel and patients, and dries leaving a visible residue. We evaluated a new spray formulation of bleach that is purported to be as effective as regular bleach, but with less potential for adverse effects. METHODS: We examined the efficacy of the spray application of the new formulation of bleach (sodium hypochlorite 0.32%) in comparison to a spray application of a standard bleach product (sodium hypochlorite 0.65%) for killing Clostridium difficile spores, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli in 5% fetal calf serum on steel disk carriers. We assessed real-world materials compatibility of the products by repeated spray applications on a hospital mattress, formica bedside table, and textiles. Personnel trialing the products were interviewed to obtain information on tolerability and residue. RESULTS: Both bleach formulations reduced each of the pathogens by ≥6.0 log(10)CFU with a 2 minute contact time. With repeated applications, the standard bleach product caused rapid visible discoloration of the hospital mattress and textiles and gradual fading of the formica bedside table surface, whereas the new spray formulation caused minimal to no adverse effects with up to 60 applications. Personnel using the products reported that the new product left much less residue after use and was more tolerable than the standard bleach product. CONCLUSION: A new spray formulation of bleach was as effective as a standard bleach product, but was less damaging to surfaces, more tolerable for users, and left less residue on surfaces. The new formulation of bleach may provide an alternative sporicidal disinfectant for facilities concerned about the adverse effects of standard bleach products. DISCLOSURES: All authors: No reported disclosures.