What should be avoided when storing chlorine bleach?

Storing chlorine bleach requires careful consideration to maintain its effectiveness and ensure safety. One critical factor is that exposure to sunlight should be avoided. When bleach is exposed to sunlight, it can break down more rapidly, losing its potency and reducing its effectiveness as a disinfectant. This degradation occurs due to the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which can cause chemical reactions that lead to the breakdown of sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in bleach.

In contrast, refrigeration, while not typically necessary for bleach, does not significantly affect its stability. Storing bleach near plumbing is a consideration for safety and potential accidents, and placing bleach in an airtight container is not needed, as bleach should be stored in its original container that is designed to allow some evaporation while preventing contamination. Therefore, avoiding sunlight exposure is a key factor to ensure that chlorine bleach remains effective for as long as possible.