What the heck is a "bleach alternative"?

Question

I know it's something that helps keep clothing white, but what kind of chemical IS it? Is it better for the environment? Safer if ingested?

Answer 1

They could be referring to an oxygen bleach rather than a chlorine bleach. Also enzyme products work to "eat" some stains. They are also putting a fluorescent dye in laundry detergent that makes clothes look whiter in sunlight.(Look at the detergent as you pour it when sun light is around.) None of the cleaning products should be ingested, and all have some effect on the environment.

Answer 2

Bleach is a compound containing chlorine.

I believe that "bleach alternative" is usually an oxidizer, like hydrogen peroxide, or something similar.

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I don't think that bleach alternative is safer for you, but it is probably safer for your clothes (since chlorine eats fabric) and safer for your colors (since it is usually less harsh over-all).

And chlorine can be bad for the environment (by killing useful bacteria, and by breaking down organic matter into carcinogens), while oxidizers usually are not.