title: Aseptics and aesthetics of chlorine bleach: can its use in laundering be safely abandoned?
abstract: The disinfecting and cleansing properties of chlorine bleach in high-temperature laundering formulations first was demonstrated in 1938, and subsequently was found to be equally effective in lower-temperature formulations that included modifications in the laundering cycle. Until another well-documented bleaching additive becomes commercially available, chlorine bleach should continue to be an integral part of the laundering formulations for all textiles used in health care facilities.
authors.forename: N L
authors.initials: NL
authors.lastname: Belkin
mesh_terms: D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.; D002713:Chlorine / Q000737:chemistry*; D004202:Disinfectants; D006801:Humans; D007846:Laundering / Q000592:standards*; D007847:Laundry Service, Hospital / Q000592:standards*; D013696:Temperature; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D004202:Disinfectants; D002713:Chlorine