Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: I get confused every time I walk down the laundry aisle of the grocery store. I’m never sure what type of bleach to buy. What can you tell me about the different types? What type should be used on what? Help! – Frankie in Amarillo, Texas

Well, Frankie, we took your question to our friends at the Soap and Detergent Association, and here is what they had to say:

“Chlorine bleach aids in soil removal, acts as a disinfectant, removes color and generally whitens fabrics.

“Oxygen bleach is for most fabrics. It maintains color and whiteness.

“Don’t pour bleach directly onto the clothing in the washer. Either put it in the bleach dispenser or dilute with water and then add to the washer after the clothes are wet and the washer has finished filling.

Hope this helps! – Heloise