Used to sanitize hard surfaces, tools, containers, and cleanup areas in off-grid or emergency situations
Calcium hypochlorite (commonly sold as “pool shock”) is a long-lasting, dry alternative to liquid bleach. When mixed with water, it creates a disinfecting solution effective for cleaning surfaces and killing bacteria and viruses. This method is ideal when commercial bleach isn’t available or has expired.
Ingredients:
- Calcium hypochlorite (granular, 65–70% available chlorine; no additives or algaecides)
- Water from a freshwater source (creek, river, well, or stored supply)
- Measuring spoons (especially ¼ teaspoon)
- Non-metallic container (HDPE jug or glass jar with gasket lid)
- Non-metallic stirring utensil (plastic or wood)
How to Make It:
- Dissolve 1 gram of calcium hypochlorite (about ¼ teaspoon) into 1 gallon of water. Stir until fully dissolved.
- This creates a general-purpose disinfectant similar in strength to commercial liquid bleach (approximately 500–600 ppm available chlorine).
Apply directly to surfaces using a spray bottle, rag, mop, or immersion. Allow surfaces to remain wet for at least 5 minutes.
Use within 24 hours for maximum effectiveness.
Warnings:
- Do not ingest this solution: it is for external cleaning use only.
- Always add powder to water, never water to powder, adding water to dry calcium hypochlorite can cause a rapid, dangerous reaction or release of heat and gas. Mixing the other way is safer and controlled.
- Use in a ventilated area and wear gloves and eye protection.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid mixing with other cleaners (especially ammonia or vinegar).
Storage & Shelf Life:
- Dry calcium hypochlorite: Use to make bleach; shelf life 10+ years when kept completely dry.
- Prepared bleach solution (1 gram in 1 gallon): Use for surface cleaning; shelf life 24 hours.