Top 5 most common uses for chlorine dioxide

Chlorine dioxide is a gas commonly used to disinfect and purify questionable sources of water.

When used in small quantities with the intention of disinfecting water, it is safe and does not lead to any health risks.

If chlorine dioxide were to be used in large quantities it can potentially be dangerous.

“Chlorine dioxide is a disinfectant that kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi. But at high doses, it can damage red blood cells and the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.”

Although chlorine dioxide is a similar compound to bleach, it is not bleach. They are completely different compounds.

“Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is a chemical compound consisting of one chlorine atom and two oxygen atoms. It is a reddish to yellowish-green gas at room temperature that dissolves in water. It is used for a variety of antimicrobial uses, including the disinfection of drinking water.”

“Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) (aka bleach) is a solution made from reacting chlorine with a sodium hydroxide solution. These two reactants are the major co-products from most chlor-alkali cells. Sodium hypochlorite, commonly referred to as bleach, has a variety of uses and is an excellent disinfectant/antimicrobial agent.”

Now that we understand the difference between chlorine dioxide and bleach, let’s dive into a list of the five most common uses for chlorine dioxide.

1. Water treatment. Chlorine dioxide has been used in water treatment plants for many decades. It disinfects, kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Common protocol for treating water is a maximum of 0.8 ppm.
2. Bad breath. According to WebMD, some research shows that rinsing with a mouthwash containing 0.1% chlorine dioxide can improve bad breath. The mouthwash is swished around in the mouth for 30 to 60 seconds and then spit out.
3. Thrush. According to WebMD, early research shows that rinsing with a mouthwash containing 0.8% chlorine dioxide can improve the symptoms and appearance of thrush. The mouthwash is swished around in the mouth for 60 seconds and then spit out. It is also used to soak dentures overnight.
4. Vegetable rinse. Because of it’s incredible ability to disinfect and kill bacteria, chlorine dioxide can be used to effectively wash fruits and vegetables.
5. Disinfecting small wounds. According to WebMD, when applied to the skin: Chlorine dioxide is POSSIBLY SAFE when used by healthcare professionals to clean small wounds.