Ingredient Database

ToxicFree Foundation / Ingredient Database / Sodium Chlorite (NaClO2)
    Type in the name of an ingredient to learn how it has been rated by ToxicFree Foundation
    Green Light
    Reality Check!

    Sodium Chlorite (NaClO2)

    Sodium Chlorite

    Sodium Chlorite (NaClO2)

    What is it?

    Sodium Chlorite (NaClO2) is a double bond stabilized oxygen also known as stabilized chlorine dioxide that breaks down into salt.  Sodium chlorite is very alkaline and stable.  While it destroys all anaerobic microbes and parasites, it does not damage the beneficial lactobacteria of our intestinal flora. The only residue left in water, food, or in the body after use is a small amount of table salt or sodium chloride (NaCl).

    Key Information

    • Excellent for use as a safe anti-bacterial as opposed to Triclosan and Triclocarban See Triclosan.
    • Safe and effective for use in personal care, household and oral care products as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-mold ingredient.

    More Information

    It is often confused with Sodium Chlorate (NaClO3), Sodium Chlorate is predominantly used for bleaching pulp for paper and is used as a non-selective herbicide. It is considered phytotoxic (poisonous to all green plant parts).  Sources: Organ system toxicity according to Environment Canada Domestic Substance List and Wildlife and environmental toxicity according to E.U. Classification & Labeling

    Also confused with Sodium Hypochlorite. (NaClO) Predominantly used as for water treatment (chlorine) and bleaching.  Household bleaching products use this between 3-8%.  Mixing bleach with some household cleaners can be hazardous. Mixing an acid cleaner with sodium hypochlorite bleach generates chlorine gas. Mixing with ammonia solutions (including urine) produces chloramines (derived from ammonias). Mixtures of other cleaning agents and/or organic matter can result in a gaseous reaction that can cause acute lung injury.

    Reference: https://bit.ly/3rXtO35

    This ingredient is commonly used in: