Sodium Hypochlorite: What It Is, Why It Works, and How to Use It Right 

Sodium hypochlorite is a strong oxidizing agent and disinfectant most commonly found in bleach. In the professional cleaning world, it's typically sold in 12.5% liquid form.

When diluted, sodium hypochlorite:

• Kills mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria
• Lifts organic stains from concrete, siding, roofs, and more
• Sanitizes surfaces effectively and fast

It's widely used in:

• Roof soft washing
• House washing
• Concrete cleaning
• Fence and deck brightening
• Commercial flatwork cleaning

Unlike high-pressure water alone, sodium hypochlorite goes deeper - killing the source of biological growth rather than just blasting away the surface.

It is:

• Fast-acting
• Affordable
• Easy to mix and apply with proper systems
• Compatible with surfactants for longer dwell time and better cling

The key is using it correctly and safely.

1. Dilute Based on Surface

• 1 - 2% for siding, general cleaning, or light mold
• 3 - 4% for roofs, heavily stained concrete, or lichen
• Use proportioners, downstream injectors, or batch mixes
• Never apply raw 12.5% directly to surfaces without dilution

2. Add Surfactants

Surfactants improve how SH performs:

• Slows down runoff
• Improves cling to vertical surfaces
• Reduces spotting or uneven results

Popular pairings from LNI Equipment include:

• Blue Crush Surfactant
• Roof Guard (extends dwell time on steep surfaces)
• Lemon Drop (bleach masking)

3. Rinse Plants and Sensitive Areas

SH can cause foliage burn and staining on delicate surfaces. Always:

• Pre-wet landscaping
• Cover sensitive materials (metal, paint, wood)
• Rinse thoroughly after application

4. Wear Proper PPE

Always use:

• Gloves
• Eye protection
• Respirators if working in enclosed spaces
• Bleach-neutralizer on standby

5. Flush Equipment After Use

After running SH through your pumps, injectors, and hoses - flush with clean water. This prevents corrosion and chemical breakdown in your equipment.

• Store in cool, shaded areas
• Keep containers sealed to reduce evaporation and degradation
• Never mix SH with acids or other chemicals (can release toxic gas)
• Label tanks and sprayers clearly
• Replace old product - SH loses potency over time

At LNI Equipmentstrong>, we stock 12.5% Sodium Hypochlorite in bulk, along with:

• Proportioning systems
• Surfactants
• Tanks and sprayers
• PPE and accessories

We serve professional contractors throughout New Jersey and the surrounding region.

Sodium hypochlorite is the backbone of soft washing and pressure washing services. When used properly, it delivers results clients notice - without damaging surfaces or harming equipment.

Want help building the right SH setup? Or need a reliable source for your weekly jobs?

Shop Sodium Hypochlorite & Soft Wash Essentials