What is a Bleach Bath?

A dilute bleach bath is basically creating a personalized bathing pool with healing properties that can be made with only a bathtub, water, and household bleach.

What is the purpose of a Bleach bath?

A bleach bath is a care technique used in the treatment of eczema. It is affordable, easy, and may reduce the need for antibiotics.

How do Bleach baths help with eczema?

The inflammation, itching, and scratching of eczema increase the risk of imbalanced colonization of the skin with skin bacteria. Imbalanced skin may become infected and even more inflamed. Bleach baths decrease the bacteria of the skin and help promote microbial balance. It is also important that bleach baths be followed with a thorough rinse and prompt application of moisturizers and topical medications to avoid further irritation or drying of the skin.

What do you need?

Common liquid bleach

How to make a Bleach Bath?

Instructions

1. Fill the bathtub with lukewarm water. Most tubs hold about 40 gallons of water.
2. Add ¼ – ½ cup of bleach into the tub.
3. Mix the bleach and the water. This will make the bath slightly more chlorinated than the average swimming pool.
4. Soak in the bath for about 10 minutes.
5. Drain the tub, and then thoroughly rinse the skin clear with lukewarm, fresh water.
6. After rinsing, pat dry with a clean, fresh towel. Do not rub dry.
7. Immediately apply the creams, ointments, and moisturizers as directed by your healthcare provider.

 

Special Considerations

It is recommended that after a bleach bath, to prevent recontamination, the use of freshly laundered towels, pajamas, and sheets (and even plush toys) is recommended.

As labeled on the bleach bottle, bleach is not safe to be applied directly on the skin.

Bleach baths may sting cracked and raw skin. If this happens, less bleach (more diluted) may be necessary.