How We Test Disinfectants
When we test our disinfectants to evaluate their efficacy and safety, we aim to ensure that our products meet our consumer’s expectations. Here’s how we ensure our products live up to our commitment to effectiveness and safety:
First and foremost, Clorox® Regular Bleach2, is registered with and regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To be approved by the EPA, products must pass strict microbiological efficacy tests that prove they kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Products must also meet rigorous data requirements set by the EPA to ensure safety for humans and the environment. Clorox also sells many other types of disinfecting products (such as Formula 409, Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, Scentiva, and Pine-Sol) that do not contain bleach; instead they disinfect using hydrogen peroxide, glycolic acid and other EPA-approved chemistries.
Before all of our bleach and disinfecting products go on the market, Clorox conducts rigorous human and environmental safety assessments, evaluating ingredients and product formulations. Data on disinfecting products are also independently reviewed and approved by EPA. And once Clorox products are in the hands of consumers, we are committed to regularly monitoring the safety of our products in the marketplace. We encourage consumers to report any concerns using the company contact information present on the product label.
Clorox products that are intended for use in healthcare facilities are tested in healthcare facilities, including efficacy against specific bacteria, viruses or other pathogens commonly found in medical facilities. These products are used to help protect vulnerable patients from surfaces contaminated with infection-causing germs, and are evaluated by leading experts in rigorous, external, evidence-based research.
Because Clorox takes product safety seriously, we want to make sure our customers have easy access to information that helps them better understand how to use bleach and other disinfecting products safely. That’s why, on our website, we make product safety information publicly available and have dedicated a page to answering your questions. We want to make sure your voice is being heard and that we are learning first-hand how our products are used so we can respond to you.
Even after all of our testing and evaluation, ensuring our products’ safety doesn’t stop there. We continue to listen, engage in open dialogues, and work to find answers for the questions you have – and create products that may help to protect the families and pets you love.