Hypochlorous (HOCl) Frequently Asked Questions

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is an antimicrobial agent that inactivates bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores through oxidation — the same natural chemistry your immune system uses to fight germs.

What makes HOCl different from other disinfectants is its neutral charge. Most conventional disinfectants, like bleach or alcohol-based products, are chemically charged or highly alkaline. Microbial cell walls are negatively charged, which means those disinfectants are partially repelled — slowing penetration and increasing the risk of skin and lung irritation.

HOCl, by contrast, is neutrally charged and pH-balanced, so it passes easily through microbial cell walls without resistance or chemical burn. Once inside, it reacts with vital proteins and enzymes, oxidizing and breaking down the microbe’s internal structures. This reaction fully inactivates (kills) the microbe, preventing it from reproducing or causing harm — all while remaining gentle on human and animal tissue.

In simple terms:

• Entry: Its neutral charge lets HOCl pass through microbial cell walls quickly and safely.
• Reaction: It oxidizes key proteins and enzymes inside the cell.
• Result: The microbe is destroyed and inactivated, while skin, tissue, and surfaces remain unharmed.
  

HOCl delivers fast, broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection — the same natural defense your immune system uses, now made simple and safe for everyday life.

Fresh hypochlorous acid (HOCl) delivers reliable germ-killing power because it’s mixed at full strength, with the ideal pH and concentration for maximum effectiveness.

When HOCl is freshly made, it inactivates bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores quickly — while staying gentle on skin, pets, and surfaces. But HOCl is a fragile molecule. Exposure to light, heat, or air causes its pH and concentration to drop, reducing its antimicrobial performance. Over time, it can even break down into simple saline.

With pre-mixed solutions, you have no way of knowing what conditions they’ve faced — from manufacturing to storage to shipping — and those variables can significantly affect strength.

That’s why River Refresh developed the Activation Packet™ — to let you make HOCl fresh on demand and trust its strength every single time.

At River Refresh, we believe when you can control freshness, you can trust performance™.

Learn More: Why Choose River Refresh Activation Packet™ instead of pre-mixed sprays.
Learn More: How should I store Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) to keep it fresh?

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) can be as effective or more effective than bleach at inactivating germs, yet it’s far gentler on people, pets, and surfaces.

Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is highly alkaline and works mainly in its charged form, making it corrosive and irritating to skin, lungs, and eyes.

HOCl, by contrast, is a neutral molecule with a balanced pH closer to healthy skin. It moves through microbial cell walls more easily and reacts through controlled oxidation, breaking down bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa safely and efficiently.

• Kills germs as effectively — or faster — than bleach
• Gentle and non-irritating when used as directed
• No harsh fumes or residue
• Eco-friendly: Naturally breaks down into salt and water
  

HOCl brings proven science out of industrial settings and into everyday life — strong enough to sanitize, safe enough to trust around family, pets, and everyday surfaces.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) can inactivate viruses such as influenza (flu) and coronaviruses, including COVID-19, when used at the proper pH and concentration levels and with adequate contact time on non-porous surfaces.

HOCl works by breaking down the virus’s outer lipid membrane and disrupting internal proteins, rendering it inactive so it can’t survive or spread. The EPA includes HOCl on List N — identifying disinfectants effective against SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) when produced within validated ranges.

For best results:

• Use freshly mixed HOCl at full recommended strength.
• Spray liberally on clean, non-porous surfaces.
• Allow to air-dry completely for proper dwell time — when it’s wet, it’s working.

Key facts:

• Proven effective against flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses — with correct pH, strength, and dwell time
• Works through natural oxidation, not harsh chemicals
• Safe for daily use around people, pets, and food areas

HOCl provides powerful antiviral protection when used correctly — ideal for non-porous surfaces where safe, natural disinfection matters most.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is one of the safest and most versatile disinfectants available. It’s a weak acid with a pH close to healthy skin or tears (around 5.5), and it’s the same molecule your white blood cells naturally produce to fight infection and support healing.

When made properly, HOCl is:

• Safe for people and animals: Non-toxic, non-irritating, and gentle enough for skin, eyes, and minor wounds.
• Free from harsh chemicals: Contains no alcohol, bleach, dyes, or synthetic preservatives.
• Pet-friendly and family-safe: Use on paws, fur, toys, feeding areas, and surfaces — no rinsing required.
• Environmentally friendly: Breaks down into salt and water — no harmful residue or fumes.

River Refresh HOCl is mixed fresh for maximum potency — giving you full antimicrobial strength that’s still perfectly safe for skin, pets, and home use.

Never mix HOCl with other cleaning products. It’s already a complete disinfectant, and combining it with other chemicals can alter its composition or create toxic reactions.

Avoid mixing HOCl with:

• Bleach or chlorine products: Can release dangerous chlorine gas.
• Vinegar or acids: Destabilizes HOCl and reduces effectiveness.
• Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol: Breaks down HOCl instantly.
• Detergents or soaps: Neutralize its antimicrobial power.
• Essential oils or aromatics: React with HOCl and make it unstable.

Keep HOCl pure and stored in a clean, opaque spray bottle, away from heat and sunlight. Always use it as the final cleaning step on a clean surface.

HOCl works best alone — no mixing, no boosters, no worries.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) helps eliminate and prevent mold and mildew on non-porous surfaces. At the right strength, it breaks down mold spores and the biofilm they live in, stopping growth without harsh fumes or residue.

How to use it:

1. Wipe away visible mold and debris first.
2. Spray HOCl directly until evenly wet.
3. Let it stay wet for several minutes — when it’s wet, it’s working!
4. Air-dry completely — no rinsing needed.
5. Repeat daily until mold stains stop reappearing.

For deep infestations or porous materials (like drywall or insulation), HOCl supports cleanup but doesn’t replace professional remediation.

Fresh Tip: Use River Refresh Commercial HOCl (higher concentration) for mold prevention in bathrooms, basements, and humid pet areas.

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a gentle, skin-safe molecule that helps keep your skin clear, calm, and balanced. It kills harmful bacteria, reduces inflammation, and supports natural healing — all without drying or irritation.

Because it’s pH-balanced (around 5.5), HOCl works in harmony with your skin’s barrier to maintain a healthy microbiome and prevent future breakouts.

Key benefits:

• Cleanses: Removes dirt, oil, and bacteria without stripping moisture.
• Calms: Soothes redness and irritation from acne, eczema, or flare-ups.
• Heals: Speeds recovery of blemishes, cuts, or post-procedure skin.
• Balances: Helps control shine and odor-causing bacteria while keeping skin soft.

HOCl delivers clinically proven antimicrobial protection with the gentleness of water — safe for all skin types, even sensitive, acne-prone, or post-treatment skin.

Yes — River Refresh hypochlorous acid (HOCl) skincare products are completely safe for sensitive skin. They’re pH-balanced, hypoallergenic, and free from alcohol, fragrance, or harsh preservatives.

Dermatologists often recommend HOCl for eczema, rosacea, and acne-prone skin because it calms irritation, reduces redness, and supports healing without stinging or dryness.

HOCl delivers powerful antimicrobial protection while staying gentle enough for even the most reactive skin types.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is one of the gentlest yet most effective ways to calm and clarify skin prone to acne, redness, or irritation. It kills Cutibacterium acnes (the bacteria linked to breakouts) without stripping or drying, while reducing inflammation and supporting a healthy skin barrier.

Because HOCl is pH-balanced and non-irritating, it’s safe for daily use on the face, back, and chest — helping prevent new blemishes while promoting faster healing of existing ones.

How it helps:

• Antimicrobial: Targets acne-causing bacteria safely and effectively.
• Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and swelling from active breakouts.
• Barrier-supportive: Protects and restores the skin’s natural microbiome.

For surface or inflammatory acne, HOCl helps clear and soothe. For cystic or hormonal acne, use it as a complement to dermatologist-directed treatments.

Fresh Tip: Keep a small bottle in your gym bag or purse — it’s perfect for stopping sweat-related breakouts before they start.

Disclaimer: HOCl supports healthy skin but isn’t a replacement for professional medical care. If you’re under dermatologic treatment, let your provider know you’re using HOCl so they can integrate it into your plan.

Learn More: How to Apply Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) for complete application instructions.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) helps calm redness, eczema, and rosacea flare-ups by reducing inflammation and bacteria on the skin. It’s a gentle, pH-balanced, and non-toxic solution that supports sensitive or reactive skin without steroids, alcohol, or fragrance.

HOCl works by neutralizing inflammatory molecules and bacteria that worsen irritation, helping your skin barrier heal naturally and stay balanced.

Key benefits:

• Calms: Soothes redness, itching, and heat from irritation.
• Protects: Supports barrier repair for eczema and rosacea-prone skin.
• Purifies: Removes bacteria that can trigger flare-ups.

Because it’s safe and non-irritating, HOCl can be used daily — even on dry, cracked, or compromised skin. Many users notice fewer flare-ups and faster recovery compared to harsher topical products.

Fresh Tip: Keep your HOCl spray in the refrigerator — the cool mist instantly relieves heat and tightness during flare-ups.

Disclaimer: HOCl provides supportive care for irritated or inflamed skin but isn’t a replacement for professional medical treatment. If symptoms persist, consult your dermatologist.

Learn More: How to Apply Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) for complete application instructions.

Use hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as the first step after cleansing to balance pH, kill acne-causing bacteria, and prep your skin for serums or moisturizers.
Let it dry completely before layering other products to avoid ingredient conflicts.

See How to Apply Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) for complete application instructions.

When to use it:

• Morning: After cleansing, before serum or moisturizer.
• Evening: After cleansing again, to calm and support overnight recovery.
• Anytime: Mist throughout the day for a refreshing, bacteria-clearing boost — especially after workouts, travel, or mask wear.

Fresh Tip: For an extra-soothing experience, chill your River Refresh in the refrigerator — the cool mist amplifies its calming effect and extends freshness.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is completely safe for lash extensions and false lashes. It’s oil-free, residue-free, and pH-balanced, so it won’t weaken adhesive or shorten the life of your extensions.

Instead, HOCl helps extend wear by keeping the lash line clean from oil, bacteria, and buildup — the same issues that often cause extensions to loosen or shed early.

It also supports lash health by reducing Demodex mites (tiny lash-dwelling organisms) and calming the skin at the lash base. That means less itching, redness, and lash thinning — especially for long-term extension wearers.

How to use:

• Lightly mist over closed eyes or apply with a clean spoolie or cotton pad.
• Use daily, especially after makeup removal or before sleep.

Fresh Tip: Make HOCl part of your nightly lash routine — clean, calm, and extension-safe freshness that keeps lashes looking their best.

Learn More: What are the benefits of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) for lashes and eyelids?

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is gentle enough for the delicate skin around your eyes yet powerful enough to keep lashes and lids clean, calm, and balanced.

It helps remove bacteria, oil, and debris along the lash line — common triggers for redness, irritation, and styes. Regular use supports clear lids, healthy follicles, and comfortable eyes.

HOCl also helps reduce Demodex mite buildup, tiny organisms that can live in lash follicles and cause itching, flaking, and lash thinning. By keeping the lash line clean and pH-balanced, HOCl helps discourage their growth naturally.

Clinically recognized for lid hygiene, eye-care professionals use HOCl to support relief from blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

How to use:

• Close your eyes and mist lightly over lids and lashes, or spray onto a clean cotton pad and gently wipe along the lash line.
• Use once or twice daily, especially if you wear makeup, lash extensions, or contact lenses.

Fresh Tip: A light mist before bed helps calm tired eyes and support overnight recovery.

If you wear lash extensions, see our FAQ: Is hypochlorous acid (HOCl) safe to use with false lashes or lash extensions?

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) kills 99.9% of germs, bacteria, and viruses within seconds — all without alcohol, harsh chemicals, or sticky residue. It’s a gentle, non-toxic alternative for clean hands that stay soft and hydrated instead of dry or irritated.

Unlike alcohol-based sanitizers that strip moisture and sting cuts, HOCl disinfects through oxidation (not dehydration) — so it kills pathogens effectively while keeping your skin barrier healthy.

Everyday uses:

• Keep a bottle in your purse, car, or kids’ backpack for clean hands anywhere.
• Perfect for sensitive skin or those who can’t tolerate alcohol sanitizers.
• Safe to use around pets, food, and personal items.
  

Fresh Tip: Use after washing or whenever soap and water aren’t available — it sanitizes, hydrates lightly, and leaves zero residue.

Learn More: How to Apply Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) for complete application instructions.

Learn More: How does River Refresh hypochlorous acid hand sanitizer compare to alcohol-based sanitizers?

River Refresh Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) Hand Sanitizer & Body Spray kills 99.9% of germs as effectively as alcohol sanitizers — but without dryness, irritation, or harsh fumes.

Because HOCl is water-based and pH-balanced, it supports your skin’s natural moisture barrier, keeping hands soft, hydrated, and healthy even with frequent use.

Learn More: The benefits of using hypochlorous acid as a hand sanitizer

Yes — River Refresh Hypochlorous Acid Body Spray can be used on underarms, feet, or anywhere odor-causing bacteria form. It neutralizes existing odors but isn’t an antiperspirant, so it doesn’t prevent sweating.

For best results, wipe away sweat before spraying to let the solution contact skin directly. It helps eliminates odor at the source without perfume, aluminum, or harsh chemicals, and it’s gentle enough for everyday all-over use.

If you’re still sweating or particularly odiferous, simply repeat as needed — the spray is safe for frequent application.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is gentle and safe for use on intimate skin, including the vaginal and groin area, bum, and baby bottoms.

It’s naturally pH-balanced (around 5.5) — close to the body’s own acidity — and completely free of alcohol, fragrance, and harsh preservatives.

HOCl soothes irritation from heat, moisture, or friction and helps reduce redness or bumps after shaving or waxing. It also neutralizes odor-causing bacteria without masking scent or disrupting the body’s natural microbiome.

Fresh Tips:

• Spray directly on clean, external skin and let it air-dry.
• Use daily or whenever skin feels irritated, warm, or needs a refresh.
• Safe for adults and babies — gentle enough for diaper care and postpartum hygiene.

Disclaimer: HOCl supports healthy skin and odor control but isn’t intended for internal use or to replace medical care. If irritation or infection persists, consult your healthcare provider.

Learn More: How to Apply Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) for complete application instructions.

You can clean almost anything with hypochlorous acid (HOCl). It kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and fungi yet is gentle enough for use on skin, around food, and near pets.

Use HOCl anywhere you’d normally reach for a disinfectant or deodorizing spray — minus the harsh chemicals.

Everyday cleaning:

• Kitchen counters, cutting boards, and sinks
• Bathrooms — toilets, tubs, tile, and fixtures
• Doorknobs, light switches, and remotes
• Phones, keyboards, and electronics (spray on a cloth first)

Odor control:

• Trash cans, laundry hampers, and car interiors
• Pet areas, litter boxes, and bedding
• Gym gear, shoes, and yoga mats

Soft surfaces:

• Upholstery, rugs, curtains, and bedding
• Safe for most fabrics (always test delicate or dyed items first)

Because HOCl breaks down into salt and water, it leaves no residue or fumes — just a natural clean.

Cleaning with hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is simple — spray, wait, and let it dry. Apply an even coat and allow full contact time so it can kill 99.9% of germs and neutralize odors effectively.

For everyday cleaning:

1. Start with a clean surface. Wipe away crumbs, grease, or visible residue first. HOCl works best on pre-cleaned areas.
2. Spray evenly. Coat the surface until it looks wet — when it’s wet, it’s working!
3. Let it sit. Leave it for at least one minute to ensure contact with bacteria and viruses.
4. Air dry. No rinsing or wiping needed.

Where to use it:

• Kitchens: counters, sinks, cutting boards, refrigerator handles, trash bins, and appliances
• Bathrooms: faucets, toilets, tubs, and tile grout
• High-touch areas: doorknobs, light switches, railings, and remotes

For more tips on where to use River Refresh in the kitchen, read our Refresh Lab article: "HOCl in the Kitchen: Fresh Uses Beyond the Countertops"

Because HOCl is non-toxic and residue-free, you can use it around food, pets, and children with complete confidence.

Fresh Tip: Keep a bottle on your counter or under the sink for quick sprays after cooking, cleaning, or guests — no gloves, no fumes, no worries.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is completely safe to use around food, kids, and pets. It’s non-toxic, fragrance-free, and residue-free, so you can clean and sanitize without worrying about chemical exposure or harsh fumes.

HOCl is made from salt, water, and electricity — the same simple chemistry your body’s immune system uses to fight germs.

Use safely anywhere life gets messy:

• Kitchens and food surfaces
• Kids’ toys and play areas
• Pet spaces and bedding
• Cars, strollers, and diaper bags

Because HOCl is pH-balanced and non-corrosive, it won’t irritate skin or eyes and doesn’t need to be rinsed after use — even on food-contact surfaces.

HOCl delivers scientifically proven antimicrobial power that’s tough on germs but gentle enough for family life — a cleaner you can trust everywhere.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) can safely and effectively replace bleach and most conventional disinfectant sprays for everyday cleaning. It kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and fungi through gentle oxidation — breaking down microbial cell walls without harsh chemicals, fumes, or corrosive residues.

Unlike bleach or alcohol-based cleaners, HOCl works at a neutral pH (around 5.5) — close to your skin’s natural balance — so it’s safe to use without gloves, masks, or ventilation. It’s important to use the right HOCl product formulated with proper pH, concentration, and dwell time to ensure full disinfecting performance.

HOCl vs. Bleach

• Effectiveness: Both kill germs, but HOCl acts faster and remains effective at lower concentrations.
• Safety: Non-toxic, non-corrosive, and safe for skin, pets, and food-contact surfaces.
• Residue: Bleach leaves chemical film; HOCl breaks down naturally into salt and water.
• Odor: HOCl has a faint, clean scent that fades quickly — no sharp chlorine fumes.

Because HOCl disinfects through gentle oxidation rather than caustic burning, you get bleach-level cleaning power with the safety of water — no gloves, no fumes, no damage.

No — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is one of the gentlest, most surface-safe cleaners you can use at home. It’s non-corrosive, color-safe, and won’t damage finishes or fabrics when used properly.

Safe for use on:

• Hard surfaces: counters, stainless steel, sealed wood, laminate, tile, and glass
• Soft surfaces: furniture, rugs, bedding, and upholstery (test first on delicate fabrics or unstable dyes)
• Electronics: phones, keyboards, and remotes — spray onto a microfiber cloth first, then wipe

What to avoid:

• Unsealed wood or unfinished leather
• Porous stone (like unsealed marble or granite)
• Mixing with other cleaners — HOCl should always be used on its own

Storage Tip: Store HOCl in a clean, opaque bottle and keep it away from direct sunlight or heat to preserve its strength.

HOCl cleans without the drama — no streaks, no bleaching, no film.

Just spray, let dry, and move on.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) can safely be used in cool-mist humidifiers or ultrasonic diffusers when kept below 200 ppm. It helps reduce airborne microbes, neutralize odors, and naturally freshen the air while misting micro-droplets that lightly sanitize nearby surfaces.

Use it correctly:

• Cool-mist only: Heat breaks down HOCl — avoid warm-mist or steam models.
• Never mix with essential oils, aromatics, or fragrances: These deactivate HOCl and reduce effectiveness.
• Rinse the tank often: HOCl helps limit biofilm, but regular rinsing prevents mineral buildup that can affect mist output.
• Use distilled or purified water: Preserves both HOCl strength and device longevity.
• Keep humidity between 40–50 %: That’s the sweet spot for airway comfort and reduced germ spread.
  

You’re not just humidifying — you’re cleaning the air itself. HOCl turns your mist into a quiet, natural purifier.

For more on how humidity, air quality, and HOCl support overall wellness, read our feature: Winter Wellness Starts with HOCl

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is food-safe and works beautifully as a natural rinse for produce and flowers. It removes surface bacteria, pesticide residue, and odor-causing microbes without harsh chemicals, perfume, or aftertaste.

For fruits & vegetables:

• Rinse produce first with clean water to remove visible dirt and debris.
• For spraying, use full-strength River Refresh HOCl (around 200 ppm). Spray evenly until surfaces are fully wet, let sit 1–2 minutes, then rinse or let air-dry.
• For soaking, mix 1 part HOCl with 3–4 parts water, making sure produce is completely submerged for 3–5 minutes before rinsing.
• Drain and let air-dry — no rinse is required.

Dirt and organic residue can weaken HOCl’s cleaning power. Always start with a quick water rinse before applying HOCl for best results — clean surfaces mean stronger disinfection.

For fresh-cut flowers:

• Add 1–2 teaspoons (or 3–4 sprays) of HOCl to vase water. It slows bacterial growth, keeps stems clear, and helps blooms last longer.

Important: Never mix HOCl with vinegar, baking soda, or essential oils — they neutralize each other and reduce HOCl’s cleaning power.

Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is completely safe for pets when used as directed, including cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals, and even horses.

HOCl is a naturally produced compound your pet’s immune system already uses to fight bacteria and support healing. It’s trusted by veterinarians for wound care, ear cleaning, and post-surgery recovery because it’s non-toxic, fragrance-free, and gentle on fur, skin, and paws.

Unlike harsh disinfectants or alcohol sprays, River Refresh HOCl won’t sting, stain, or require rinsing — even if your pet licks the treated area.

Key benefits:

• Antimicrobial: Kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause odor and irritation.
• Anti-inflammatory: Calms itchy or inflamed skin and promotes healing.
• Residue-free: Safe for fur, skin, paws, and bedding.
• Non-toxic: Safe if licked or inhaled during normal use.

Disclaimer: River Refresh products are for external use only and should complement, not replace, veterinary care. If irritation persists, consult your veterinarian.

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a gentle, no-rinse way to clean, soothe, and protect your pet’s skin, paws, and coat — while also helping relieve itchy skin, hot spots, and yeast-related irritation.

How to use:

• Spray evenly across fur, belly, or paws after walks or outdoor play.
• For irritated areas, part the fur and spray directly on the skin — when it’s wet, it’s working.
• Let air-dry; no rinsing required.
• Use two to three times daily for problem areas until skin improves.

Why it helps:

• Antimicrobial: Kills bacteria and fungi that cause odor, infection, or itching.
• Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation.
• Supports healing: Mimics your pet’s natural immune response without stinging or drying.

Fresh Tip: Keep a bottle near the door or grooming station for quick refreshes after outdoor play or baths.

Disclaimer: HOCl supports skin health and healing but is not a substitute for veterinary care. For persistent irritation, consult your vet.

Yes — HOCl is gentle enough for sensitive areas like eyes, ears, and mouth when applied correctly. It’s non-toxic, non-irritating, and free of alcohol or additives.

For eyes & tear stains:

• Spray HOCl onto a clean cotton pad (not directly into the eye).
• Gently wipe around eyes to remove buildup or discharge.

For ears:

• Mist a pad or cloth, then wipe the outer ear and folds.
• Avoid pouring liquid directly into the ear canal.

For dental care:

• Add 1–2 sprays to your pet’s water bowl
• Safe to spritz dental toys or chew surfaces for extra freshness.

Fresh Tip: Regular cleaning with HOCl supports oral, eye, and ear hygiene without the sting, smell, or struggle of typical pet products.

Disclaimer: HOCl is safe for external use but not intended as an eyewash or inner-ear flush. If pain or swelling occurs, contact your vet.

Yes — River Refresh Hypochlorous Pet Spray is 100% safe if licked. It’s non-toxic, alcohol-free, and biologically compatible since pets naturally produce hypochlorous acid in their own immune systems.

Unlike harsh cleaners, it’s worry-free for use on skin, fur, and paws — even if your pet grooms the treated area immediately after application.

No rinse required. River Refresh Pet Spray is completely leave-on safe. Spray directly on fur, skin, or paws and let air-dry.

For wound care, gently pat dry if needed — otherwise, let it dry naturally. When it’s wet, it’s working. It cleans, deodorizes, and soothes in one step — no residue, no irritation.

HOCl is a safe, non-toxic alternative to harsh disinfectants for cleaning and deodorizing pet areas. It kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and fungi while leaving no residue, fumes, or irritation.

For everyday sanitizing:

• Spray food bowls, toys, litter boxes, kennels, or bedding.
• Let sit for one minute and air-dry — when it’s wet, it’s working.
• No rinse needed.

For multi-pet or high-traffic areas:

• Mist floors, carriers, or beds daily to prevent odor and contamination.
• Especially useful for rescues or foster environments.

Fresh Tip: Freshly mixed HOCl offers the sanitizing power of professional veterinary cleaners like Rescue™ — without fumes or irritation.

Disclaimer: River Refresh HOCl is safe for routine cleaning but not a replacement for professional remediation in severe contamination cases.

No — HOCl is one of the safest cleaners for homes with pets. It won’t harm fabrics, sealed wood, laminate, tile, or most finishes.

Safe for everyday use on:

• Pet bedding, couches, and rugs
• Food bowls, toys, and crates
• Hardwood (sealed), stainless steel, tile, and glass

Avoid:

• Unsealed wood, unfinished leather, or porous stone.
• Always test a hidden area first.

HOCl neutralizes odor-causing microbes instead of masking them, leaving a clean, fragrance-free freshness throughout your home.

Because freshness equals power.

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) naturally breaks down when exposed to light, heat, or air. Pre-mixed products can lose strength during shipping and storage — sometimes before they even reach your hands.

River Refresh solves that. Our patent-pending Activation Packet™ system lets you make HOCl fresh at home by adding the packet to purified or distilled water and giving it a quick shake. The result is full-strength, stable HOCl every single time.

Why it matters:

• Fresh = potent: You activate it when you need it, so it’s always performing at peak strength.
• Pure & simple: No preservatives, stabilizers, or additives — just clean, active HOCl.
• Multi-purpose: Formulas tailored for skin, pets, and home cleaning.
• Earth-friendly: Reusable bottles and lightweight packets reduce plastic waste and shipping impact.

When you control freshness, you can trust performance™ — and that’s the River Refresh difference.

For a deeper look at what makes River Refresh different (and better), read our Refresh Lab feature: Why River Refresh is Different - And Better.

Freshly mixed hypochlorous acid (HOCl) stays at peak strength for up to 45 days when made and stored properly. Because HOCl is a naturally active molecule, it slowly breaks down when exposed to light, heat, or air — so freshness directly affects performance.

To maintain full potency:

• Use your Activation Packet™ within 90 days of receiving it.
• Mix only with distilled or purified water in a clean bottle.
• Store tightly sealed, away from sunlight or heat.

River Refresh recommends using your freshly mixed HOCl within 45 days for optimal results. Some products claim longer shelf life, but that usually means added stabilizers or preservatives — which compromise purity.

Fresh Tip: If your HOCl loses its faint “clean” scent, it may have started to weaken. Just mix a new batch for guaranteed strength and freshness.

Store hypochlorous acid (HOCl) the same way you’d protect a delicate skincare product — cool, dark, and tightly sealed. Exposure to light, air, or heat speeds up natural degradation and reduces strength.

Best storage practices:

• Use an opaque or amber bottle to block sunlight.
• Tighten the cap after each use to limit air exposure.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.
• Avoid metal containers or bottles that previously held other cleaners.

When stored properly, River Refresh HOCl maintains its full potency for up to 45 days after mixing. Its stability depends on both water purity and storage conditions, so always use distilled or purified water and clean bottles.

Fresh Tip: Refrigeration can slightly extend freshness — and adds a refreshing cooling effect for skin use.

Yes — but only into new bottles or ones used exclusively for HOCl. Any residue from alcohol, bleach, or essential oils can alter its chemistry and reduce effectiveness.

Best practices:

• Use only new bottles or those dedicated solely to HOCl use — never reuse bottles from other cleaners.
• Choose opaque or amber plastic (HDPE or PET) to block light and preserve strength.
• Avoid metal containers — HOCl can react with metal surfaces.
• Label clearly and seal tightly after each use.

All River Refresh Starter Kits include the correct mixing and spray bottles, so you don’t have to worry about container compatibility — just activate, spray, and go.

River Refresh was built to clean powerfully while keeping its environmental footprint small. The Activation Packet™ system lets you make fresh HOCl at home with purified or distilled water — eliminating the need to ship heavy liquids or discard single-use bottles.

Why it’s better for you and the planet:

• Reusable bottles: Refill instead of rebuy — one packet replaces up to eight bottles.
• Concentrated shipping: Smaller, lighter shipments mean less carbon output.
• Non-toxic & biodegradable: HOCl breaks down into salt and water — safe for people, pets, and waterways.
• No harsh residues: No surfactants, stabilizers, or pollutants.
• Cleaner surfaces = less waste: Dirt weakens HOCl, so you use less product for the same clean.

The greenest clean is the one you make fresh — no waste, no fumes, just pure HOCl that returns harmlessly to the earth.