Common hazardous ingredients
Oxalic acid, sodium hypochlorite, sodium perborate, sodium percarbonate, sodium tripolyphosphate.
Potential hazards
Chlorine bleach is reactive and can form toxic gases when mixed with other cleaners; irritant to eyes and mucous membranes; and is corrosive. Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or with any acid, including vinegar. When combined, these compounds produce toxic chloramine gas.
Use
Wear heavy rubber gloves and use in a well-ventilated area.
Storage
Keep the container lid tightly closed when not in use and store out of reach of children and pets.
Disposal
Best: Use up or give away. Rinse and recycle empty bottles.
Second best: Take to a hazardous waste facility or collection event.
Third best: If your home is connected to a city sewer system, flush small amounts down an inside drain (toilet is best) with lots of water. If you are on a septic system, flush very small quantities over several days.
Alternatives
Option 1:
Reduce the amount of chlorine bleach by half and add 1/2 cup baking soda to top-loading machines or 1/4 cup to front loaders.
Option 2:
Use oxygen bleach, 1/2 cup per load.
Option 3:
Use hydrogen peroxide-based bleach.
Find more recipes for laundry soap and other cleaners.