I've never been a bleach fan. Sure, it whitens and disinfects, but it also irritates eyes, lungs, and skin, and over time it can eat tiny holes in your favorite shirts (or yellow them, if your water has any rust in it).
A while back I started mixing my own alternative with hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice, and I haven't looked back. It brightens whites just as well, but it's gentler on fabric and a lot easier to breathe around.
One note: peroxide loses its punch once opened, so I only mix small batches at a time. Below is exactly how I do it.
Be Well,
Anisa
This recipe makes about one quart. Combine 1/2 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, and enough water to fill a quart jar or spray bottle.
Add it to your wash along with your regular detergent, or spray it directly on stains and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before laundering as usual.
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