Multi-Surface Cleaner FAQ
Multi-Surface Cleaner FAQ
Everything you need to know about OrbitEnviro's HOCl Multi-Surface Cleaners - from usage and safety to effectiveness and environmental benefits.
Product Basics
What is HOCl and how does it work as a cleaner?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a powerful oxidizing agent that breaks down organic matter, eliminates odors, and kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and pathogens on contact. Unlike traditional cleaners that rely on harsh chemicals or surfactants, HOCl works at the molecular level by disrupting the cell walls of microorganisms. It's the same antimicrobial molecule your immune system produces, making it both highly effective and completely safe.
What surfaces can I clean with HOCl Multi-Surface Cleaner?
Our HOCl cleaner is safe and effective on virtually all surfaces including:
- Countertops (granite, marble, quartz, laminate)
- Stainless steel appliances and fixtures
- Glass, mirrors, and windows
- Tile, grout, and ceramic
- Wood furniture and floors (sealed)
- Plastic, vinyl, and rubber
- Upholstery and fabric (test first)
- Electronics and screens (spray on cloth first)
- Food prep surfaces and cutting boards
- Bathroom fixtures and toilets
- Children's toys and high chairs
- Pet areas, crates, and bowls
HOCl won't damage, discolor, or leave residue on surfaces like harsh chemical cleaners can.
How is HOCl different from bleach or other disinfectants?
While both contain chlorine, they're fundamentally different:
- pH Level: Bleach is highly alkaline (pH 11-13) and caustic. HOCl is neutral (pH 6-7) and gentle.
- Safety: Bleach requires ventilation, gloves, and precautions. HOCl is non-toxic and safe for skin contact.
- Residue: Bleach leaves chemical residue requiring rinsing. HOCl breaks down into salt water - no rinsing needed.
- Effectiveness: HOCl is 80-100x more effective as an antimicrobial than bleach at the same concentration.
- Surface Safety: Bleach can damage, discolor, or corrode surfaces. HOCl is safe on all materials.
- Environmental Impact: Bleach produces harmful byproducts. HOCl is eco-friendly and biodegradable.
Usage & Application
How do I use the Multi-Surface Cleaner?
For general cleaning:
- Spray directly onto the surface from 6-8 inches away
- Let sit for 30-60 seconds for maximum effectiveness
- Wipe with a clean cloth or let air dry
- No rinsing required (unless on food contact surfaces per preference)
For disinfecting: Allow surface to remain wet for 1-2 minutes before wiping or air drying.
For tough stains or buildup: Spray generously, let sit for 2-3 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean.
Do I need to dilute the cleaner?
No. Our Multi-Surface Cleaner comes ready-to-use at 500 PPM - the optimal concentration for cleaning and disinfecting. Do not dilute unless specifically instructed for a particular application. Our 1-gallon refills are designed to refill your 32 oz spray bottles at full strength.
Do I need to rinse surfaces after cleaning?
No rinsing is necessary. HOCl breaks down into simple salt water after use, leaving no harmful residue. However, some people prefer to rinse food contact surfaces like cutting boards or dishes - this is optional and based on personal preference.
How much should I use per cleaning session?
A few sprays go a long way. For most surfaces, 2-4 sprays per square foot is sufficient. A 32 oz bottle typically provides 400-500 sprays, enough to clean your entire home multiple times. The 1-gallon size offers even better value for regular users or larger spaces.
Safety & Health
Is HOCl safe around children and pets?
Absolutely. HOCl is non-toxic, non-irritating, and safe if ingested in small amounts (though not intended for consumption). You can use it on high chairs, toys, pet bowls, and play areas without concern. No need to keep kids or pets away from cleaned surfaces - they're safe immediately after application.
Can I use it on food preparation surfaces?
Yes! HOCl is FDA-approved for use on food contact surfaces and is widely used in commercial food processing. It's perfect for cleaning cutting boards, countertops, and kitchen surfaces. Many restaurants and food facilities use HOCl as their primary sanitizer because it's effective yet leaves no harmful residue.
Is it safe for people with allergies or sensitivities?
Yes. HOCl is hypoallergenic and free from fragrances, dyes, harsh chemicals, and common allergens. It's ideal for people with asthma, chemical sensitivities, or skin conditions. Unlike traditional cleaners, it won't trigger respiratory issues or skin reactions.
Do I need gloves or ventilation when using it?
No. Unlike bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, HOCl requires no special precautions. You can use it in enclosed spaces without ventilation concerns, and it's gentle enough for bare-hand use. That said, if you have very sensitive skin or are cleaning for extended periods, gloves are always an option.
What if it gets in my eyes or is accidentally ingested?
HOCl is used in eye care products and wound care, so brief eye contact is not harmful (though it may sting slightly - rinse with water if this occurs). If accidentally ingested in small amounts, it's non-toxic. For large amounts or if you have concerns, contact poison control or seek medical attention as you would with any cleaning product.
Effectiveness & Performance
Does HOCl really kill 99.9% of germs?
Yes. HOCl at 500 PPM is EPA-registered and proven effective against 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and pathogens including E. coli, Salmonella, Staph, MRSA, Norovirus, and many others. It's used in hospitals, schools, and food processing facilities for this reason. The kill time is typically 30 seconds to 2 minutes depending on the pathogen.
How does it compare to traditional cleaners in terms of cleaning power?
HOCl excels at both cleaning and disinfecting. While it may not cut through heavy grease quite as fast as solvent-based degreasers, it's highly effective for everyday cleaning, sanitizing, and odor elimination. For tough grease, let it sit for 2-3 minutes before wiping. Most users find it outperforms traditional cleaners for general household and commercial cleaning.
Will it remove odors?
Yes! HOCl eliminates odors at the molecular level by breaking down the organic compounds that cause them, rather than masking them with fragrances. It's highly effective on pet odors, smoke, mildew, food smells, and bathroom odors. For our dedicated odor eliminator, check out our Molecular Odor Eliminator product.
Does it leave streaks on glass or stainless steel?
No. HOCl dries clear without streaking, filming, or residue. For best results on glass and mirrors, spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth. On stainless steel, spray and wipe in the direction of the grain for a perfect, streak-free shine.
Storage & Shelf Life
How long does HOCl cleaner last?
Our stabilized HOCl formula has a shelf life of 12-18 months when stored properly. You'll know it's still active if it has a very faint chlorine-like scent (similar to a pool, but much milder). Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal effectiveness.
How should I store it?
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the bottle sealed when not in use to minimize air exposure and preserve potency. Avoid storing above 80°F or in freezing temperatures. The spray bottle design helps maintain stability by limiting air contact.
What happens if it expires or loses potency?
HOCl gradually breaks down into salt water over time. If it loses potency, it simply becomes less effective - it doesn't become harmful or toxic. You'll notice the faint chlorine scent diminishes when it's no longer active. At that point, it's safe to dispose of down the drain and replace with a fresh bottle.
Environmental & Sustainability
Is HOCl environmentally friendly?
Yes! HOCl is one of the most eco-friendly cleaners available. It breaks down into simple salt water after use, is biodegradable, produces no harmful byproducts, and doesn't contribute to water pollution. It's safe for septic systems and greywater systems.
What's in the formula besides HOCl?
Our Multi-Surface Cleaner contains hypochlorous acid (HOCl) at 500 PPM and purified water. That's it. No fragrances, dyes, surfactants, alcohols, or harsh chemicals. Just pure, effective cleaning power.
Are the bottles recyclable?
Yes. Our spray bottles and gallon containers are made from recyclable HDPE plastic (#2). We encourage you to refill your 32 oz spray bottles with our 1-gallon refills to reduce plastic waste. Empty bottles can be recycled through standard municipal recycling programs.
How does using HOCl reduce my environmental impact?
By switching to HOCl, you eliminate multiple chemical cleaners (all-purpose, glass, disinfectant, degreaser) and replace them with one safe, effective solution. This reduces plastic waste, chemical production, and water pollution. Plus, you're not releasing harsh chemicals into your home or the environment.
Product Selection & Value
What's the difference between the 32 oz spray and 1-gallon refill?
Both contain the same 500 PPM HOCl formula. The 32 oz comes in a convenient spray bottle for everyday use. The 1-gallon refill is a cost-effective option for refilling your spray bottles - you'll save money and reduce plastic waste. Many customers buy one spray bottle and then purchase gallon refills.
Which size should I buy?
32 oz spray bottle: Perfect for first-time users, small homes, or occasional cleaning. Provides 400-500 sprays.
1-gallon refill: Best value for regular users, larger homes, or families. Refills your 32 oz bottle 4 times.
2-pack bundles: Great for multi-room homes or keeping bottles in different locations (kitchen, bathroom, garage).
55-gallon drum: Commercial and industrial facilities with high-volume cleaning needs.
Can I use this for commercial or professional cleaning?
Absolutely. Our HOCl Multi-Surface Cleaner is used by professional cleaners, janitorial services, restaurants, schools, gyms, medical offices, and more. For high-volume commercial use, check out our Janitorial packages (BASIC, PRO, ENTERPRISE) or 55-gallon drums for maximum value.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Contact our team at info@orbitenviro.com or visit our Contact page for personalized assistance with your cleaning needs.