Does bleach and baking soda react?
Bleach and baking soda are commonly used household items, but when combined, they create a chemical reaction that produces fumes and heat. This reaction is known as an exothermic reaction, which means that it releases energy in the form of heat. The bleach, or sodium hypochlorite, reacts with the baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, to form salt, water, and oxygen gas. This reaction can also lead to the weakening of the bleach’s disinfectant properties, making it less effective at killing germs and bacteria. It is, therefore, advisable to avoid mixing bleach and baking soda together, as it can lead to respiratory issues and other adverse health effects. Instead, it is recommended to use these products separately, following the manufacturer’s instructions, to achieve the desired cleaning effect.
