How to Use Hypochlorous Acid, the Gentle Cleaner That Works on Almost Any Surface

Add this miracle solution to your cleaning supplies.

spray bottle being used on surface — Credit:
Getty / Westend61

Key Points

Hypochlorous acid is a gentle cleaning solution that's safe to use in homes with children and pets.
It can be used to clean kitchen countertops, throw pillows, and much more.
It's a much safer solution than many traditional cleaners, which often contain harsh chemicals.

Bleach is out, and a gentler alternative is now taking over on TikTok. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl), once used mostly in hospitals and dermatology offices, is now having a moment as one of the safest, most effective ways to clean your home. Best of all, it doesn't contain any harsh chemicals, and it won't leave behind any lingering odors.

So how can you use this eco-conscious solution in your kitchen or bathroom? Here, we asked professional cleaners for their insight on this miracle worker.

Petya Holevich, house cleaning expert and supervisor at Fantastic Services
Taylor Riley, co-founder of GermSmart Commercial Cleaning

What Is It?

Hypochlorous acid is a weak acid created when electricity is applied to a solution of salt and water. It's the same molecule that your white blood cells naturally produce to fight off pathogens. So despite its intimidating name, HOCl is one of the safest and most effective disinfectants available today.

“[It] plays a unique and effective role in household cleaning because of its strong disinfecting properties combined with relatively low toxicity,” says Petya Holevich, house cleaning expert and supervisor at Fantastic Services. “It’s effective against a broad range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.”

Benefits

HOCl’s real magic lies in its versatility and shockingly gentle nature. It works as a disinfectant, deodorizer, and sanitizer without the potential side effects of traditional all-purpose cleaners. You can use it on everything from countertops to toys, and it’s a go-to for homes with kids, pets, or anyone sensitive to harsh chemicals.

Compared to bleach or ammonia-based products, hypochlorous acid is:

Non-toxic and biodegradable
Safe on skin and gentle on lungs
Free of strong odors or sticky residues
Environmentally friendly—it essentially breaks down into saltwater

Taylor Riley, co-founder of GermSmart Commercial Cleaning, swears by it. “What really sold me was the ability to make it at home,” he says. “It bridges the gap between green cleaning and serious sanitizing.”

How to Use It: Cleaning Fabric

You can use HOCI on some soft surfaces like pet beds, throw pillows, or that mysterious stain on your favorite armchair.

Here’s how to do it right:

Look for a household-safe concentration. Around 200 ppm is ideal.
Lightly mist the fabric. No need to soak it!
Let it air dry; no rinsing is required.
Always spot-test first if you’re working with dyed or delicate textiles.

Don't use hypochlorous acid on materials like unsealed leather or silk. While it’s a very gentle cleaner, repeated use can cause these surfaces to fade or wear over time.

HOCl is a little high-maintenance when it comes to storage. Keep it in a dark, opaque spray bottle and store it somewhere cool. It breaks down quickly when exposed to heat or light.

How to Use It: Cleaning Surfaces

HOCl is incredibly utilitarian. Just get a jug, and you’re good to go for almost all of your surfaces. Use it on the spots you touch countless times each day, like kitchen counters, doorknobs, bathroom tiles, phones, and light switches.

Here’s how to apply it effectively:

Spray directly onto the surface until it’s visibly damp.
Let it sit for at least 60 seconds so it can disinfect.
Wipe with a clean cloth or let it air dry—either works.
If you're cleaning a food prep area, give it a quick rinse after.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use around pets and chidren?

Yes, when used properly and in the right concentration, HOCl is far safer than most household disinfectants.
Can I make it at home?

Yes! You can buy an electrolyzed water generator and mix salt and water to create HOCl yourself. Just be sure to use and store it quickly. Homemade HOCl has a short shelf life of about one to two weeks.
What surfaces should I avoid using it on?

Skip using HOCl on unsealed stone, untreated wood, or delicate fabrics. It may cause fading or dulling over time.
Does it expire?

Yes. HOCl begins to break down the moment it's exposed to air, heat, or light. Always check the expiration date, and store it away from sunlight.
Can I mix it with other cleaners?

No. Mixing HOCl with bleach, vinegar, or acidic cleaners can neutralize its effectiveness—or worse, release harmful fumes.

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