Your guide to chemical dilutions
Most chemicals are supplied as a concentrate and need to be diluted before use. Chemical dilution rates can be quite confusing and hard to understand so this guide will simplify the process and explain an easy method for manually calculating how much chemical you need for a cleaning solution.
The dilution rate can be found on the label, in product info sheets, and on chemical wall charts, and it’s very important to follow the amount that's recommended. Adding more or less of a chemical doesn't necessarily make the product work any better but it can cause injury and damage to property, consequently putting the business at risk, both legally and financially.
Incorrect dilution rates can result in:
• Damage to the surface
• Being dangerous to use
• Leaving residue
• Compromise compliance requirements
• Unsatisfactory cleaning results
• Product wastage
• Reduce effectiveness of PPE
• Cause skin irritation for the next user
• Making the chemical no longer legal to use.
Manually Calculating Dilution Rates
There are various spreadsheets and online calculators that can do this for you but it's beneficial having a back-up technique for situations when other methods may be inaccessible.
Note: When manually diluting chemicals, always add water first then the chemical second. This is the safest method should there be any splash back and it also prevents the solution from foaming up.
Pre-Filled Chart of Common Dilution Rates
The following chart lists common bottle and bucket sizes and has done the calculations against common dilution rates. They won't all be listed but it'll serve as a good guide if required.
Bleach Dilution Rates for Surface and Equipment Sanitising
Bleach can be used as a surface sanitiser by following the below dilution rates and instructions. It will start to lose its effectiveness after about 12 hours and must be discarded after 24 hours.
