Important update: Healthcare facilities
CDC has updated select ways to operate healthcare systems effectively in response to COVID-19 vaccination. Learn more
UPDATE
Given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant, CDC has updated the guidance for fully vaccinated people. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time in-person learning in the fall with layered prevention strategies in place.
UPDATE
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines. More information is available here.
UPDATE
Travel requirements to enter the United States are changing, starting November 8, 2021. More information is available here.

Make a Handwashing Solution For Use in Global, Low-Resource Settings

Make a Handwashing Solution For Use in Global, Low-Resource Settings
Updated Sept. 9, 2020
Print
Related Pages

Read Text Equivalent (for Section 508 access).

 

Infographic: Making handwashing solution

Make a Handwashing Solution

Remember, only use chlorine-based hand washing solutions when soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub are not available.

Making handwashing solution from 5% liquid bleach

Use the MILD chlorine water to wash hands. Make new mild chlorine water every day.

  1. Mix 14 tablespoons of 5% bleach into 20 liters of clear water every day. Stir well.
    Label plastic bucket for handwashing only / MILD 0.05%. Do not drink or use for cooking.
  2. Make sure the bucket is covered. Use the MILD chlorine water to wash hands.

Making handwashing solution from HTH chlorine powder
Use the MILD chlorine water to wash hands. Make new mild chlorine water every day.

  1. Mix 1 tablespoon of HTH chlorine powder into 20 liters of water every day. Stir well. Label plastic bucket for handwashing only / MILD 0.05%. Do not drink or use for cooking.
  2. Stir well and wait 30 minutes.
  3. Use the MILD chlorine water to wash hands.

Call out box:

  • Do NOT drink chlorine water.
  • Do NOT put chlorine water in mouth or eyes.

View Page In PDF: English pdf icon[438 KB, 1 page] | Arabic [514 KB, 1 page] | Spanish [439 KB, 1 page] | French [444 KB, 1 page] | Portuguese [434 KB, 1 page]