Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to commonly asked questions about HOCL Health products, including shelf life, storage, safety, surface compatibility and recommended usage.
Shelf Life & Storage
1. What is the shelf life of HOCL solution?
Our HOCL solution has a validated shelf life of 12 months from manufacture, provided it is stored correctly. This includes bottles that have been opened and subsequently resealed.
Always refer to the expiry date printed on your product.
2. How should I store my HOCL solution?
For best results, store your HOCL solution:
- At temperatures between 5°C and 25°C.
- Away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
- In its original container, with the lid or spray nozzle securely closed.
- In a cool, dry location, away from incompatible chemicals.
3. Will my HOCL solution deteriorate if it gets too hot or cold?
HOCL solution is best stored between 5°C and 25°C.
Brief exposure to temperatures outside this range, such as during delivery or transportation, is unlikely to significantly affect the solution's stability or effectiveness.
However, prolonged exposure to excessive heat, freezing temperatures or direct sunlight may gradually reduce its effectiveness. We therefore recommend storing the product within the specified temperature range wherever possible.
4. Can I leave my HOCL solution in my car?
We do not recommend storing HOCL solution in vehicles for prolonged periods. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can become extremely hot or cold, potentially affecting the product's stability.
5. Does HOCL solution expire once the bottle has been opened?
Opening the bottle can gradually affect the solution's stability. However, our HOCL solution has a validated shelf life of 12 months from manufacture, including after opening, provided it is stored correctly.
For best results, always replace the cap or lid securely after use and avoid leaving the container open for prolonged periods.
Always refer to the expiry date printed on your product.
6. Can I transfer HOCL solution into another spray bottle?
We recommend retaining the solution in its original packaging wherever possible, as this is selected for compatibility and stability.
If transferring is necessary, use a clean, compatible container, ideally opaque or UV-protective, and retain the original product identification and expiry information. Never reuse a container that has held other chemicals.
Uses & Surface Compatibility
7. What surfaces can I use HOCL Surface Cleanser on?
HOCL Surface Cleanser is suitable for use on many common hard, non-porous surfaces, including compatible worktops, door handles, desks, plastic surfaces and other frequently touched areas.
Always test a small, inconspicuous area before treating a new material, particularly delicate or specialist surfaces.
8. Are there any surfaces or materials I should avoid using HOCL on?
Certain materials may be sensitive to oxidising solutions, including:
- Untreated or unsealed metals, particularly copper, brass and iron.
- Delicate or untreated natural materials.
- Sensitive fabrics, dyes and finishes.
- Electronic components or surfaces where moisture could cause damage.
Check the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations and always test on an inconspicuous area first.
9. Can HOCL solution bleach or discolour fabrics?
In most cases, HOCL solution does not cause noticeable discolouration. However, occasionally it may affect certain fabrics or dyes, depending on their composition and colourfastness.
We always recommend testing on a small, inconspicuous area first, particularly with coloured fabrics, upholstery and delicate materials.
10. Can I use HOCL on carpets, sofas and upholstery?
Some fabrics and upholstery may tolerate HOCL solution, but compatibility varies considerably.
Before use, check the manufacturer's care instructions and test a small, hidden area. Avoid saturating fabrics or using the product on delicate materials.
11. Can I use HOCL on electronic devices and screens?
Avoid spraying HOCL solution directly onto electronic devices, screens, charging ports or electrical components.
Only use the solution on external surfaces if the device manufacturer permits it. Apply with an appropriate cloth rather than spraying directly, and prevent moisture entering the equipment.
12. Can I use HOCL on food preparation surfaces?
HOCL Surface Cleanser may be used on compatible food preparation surfaces where this application is specified on the product label.
Always follow the instructions regarding application, contact time and any rinsing requirements.
How to Use HOCL
13. Do I need to dilute HOCL solution before use?
No. Our HOCL solutions are supplied ready to use at their intended concentrations and should not be diluted.
Adding water can reduce the solution's effectiveness.
14. Do I need to rinse surfaces after applying HOCL?
Follow the instructions on the product label. Rinsing requirements depend on the surface, intended application and product specification.
15. How long should I leave HOCL on a surface?
The required contact time depends on the product and the microorganisms being targeted.
Apply sufficient solution to keep the surface wet for the contact time specified on the product label. Do not wipe it away prematurely.
16. Does HOCL remove dirt and grease as well as disinfect?
HOCL is primarily used for disinfection. Heavy dirt, grease or organic matter can interfere with effective disinfection.
For heavily soiled surfaces, remove visible dirt and grease before applying HOCL.
17. Can I mix HOCL with other cleaning products?
No. Never mix HOCL solution with other cleaning products or chemicals, including bleach, acids, ammonia or detergents.
Mixing chemicals can create hazardous reactions and may reduce the effectiveness of the solution.
18. Can I use the same HOCL product on my hands and household surfaces?
We supply different formulations for different purposes:
- HOCL Hand Sanitiser – 250 ppm: Formulated specifically for hand hygiene.
- HOCL Surface Cleanser – 500 ppm: Formulated for surface cleaning and disinfection.
Although occasional skin contact with our 500 ppm solution is not expected to cause harm, we recommend using our 250 ppm Hand Sanitiser for hand hygiene, as this is the product specifically intended for that purpose.
Safety & Product Information
19. What is HOCL (hypochlorous acid)?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCL) is a substance naturally produced by the human immune system as part of its defence against microorganisms.
It can also be manufactured through a controlled electrochemical process using water, salt and electricity.
Our HOCL solutions are manufactured for specified hygiene and disinfection applications.
20. Is HOCL the same as household bleach?
No. Although both contain chlorine-based active chemistry, hypochlorous acid and conventional household bleach are different formulations.
They can differ significantly in pH, concentration, chemical composition, material compatibility and intended application.
Always use each product according to its label.
21. Does HOCL have a smell?
HOCL solution has a fresh, mild chlorine-like odour. Any unusual or substantial change in smell or appearance should be referred to our customer support team.
22. Can I use HOCL around children and pets?
Yes. When used as directed, our HOCL products are suitable for use in environments where children and pets are present.
However, as with all cleaning and disinfection products, bottles should be stored out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
23. Can I spray HOCL directly onto my face, skin or wounds?
Only use HOCL products for the specific purposes described on their labels.
Our Surface Cleanser is not intended for direct application to skin, eyes or wounds. Our Hand Sanitiser should only be used for its specified hand-hygiene application.
Do not use either product as a medical treatment or wound-care product.
Orders & General Questions
24. How can I check the strength of my HOCL solution?
The concentration of HOCL solution is commonly expressed in parts per million (ppm), referring to available chlorine.
Our retail solutions are supplied in specified concentrations, such as 250 ppm and 500 ppm.
Suitable free available chlorine test strips can help check the solution's concentration. Follow the testing instructions carefully.
25. What should I do if my product arrives damaged or leaking?
Please contact our customer service team with your order number and, where possible, photographs of the damaged packaging or product.
We will review the issue and advise on the appropriate next steps.
Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.