Chlorine for nicotine - does it work?

If you have ever been in a room where people smoke for a long time, you will have noticed yellow discolouration on walls, furniture and ceilings. This discolouration is caused by the tar and nicotine from tobacco smoke sticking to surfaces and can be really difficult to remove.

One method often recommended to get rid of the stains is to use bleach. As chlorine is a strong bleaching agent, it can be a solution to restore light-coloured surfaces. But how well does it really work, and which surfaces can withstand chlorine? Here's what you should consider before trying it out.

Can chlorine remove nicotine stains?

Yes, chlorine is a strong bleaching agent and can help remove discolouration from nicotine, especially on light-coloured surfaces. Nicotine can create a sticky film that adheres to surfaces, but chlorine can break down and dissolve the residue, making it easier to wipe away.

• Walls and ceilings - Where nicotine smoke has left a yellowish coating.
• Tiles and plastic surfaces - Where stains are often easier to remove.
• White fabrics - But be careful, as chlorine can weaken the fibres with repeated use.

How to use bleach to remove nicotine

If you want to test chlorine against nicotine stains, you can follow these steps:

1. Mix a solution - Use one part chlorine and four parts water. 2. Protect yourself and the room - Wear gloves and make sure the room is well ventilated. Chlorine has a strong odour and can be irritating to the respiratory system. 3. Apply gently - Dip a sponge or cloth into the solution and rub gently on the stain. Leave on for a few minutes. 4. Rinse with clean water - Make sure to wipe off any chlorine residue to avoid damaging the surface.

Can chlorine be used on all surfaces?

No, chlorine can be too strong for some materials, such as wallpaper, wood and textiles. It can also cause white stains on coloured fabrics. Always test on a small surface first before cleaning a larger surface.

Are there other ways to wash away nicotine?

If you want to avoid chlorine, there are other cleaning methods that can be just as effective, depending on the surface you want to clean. Mild cleaners can sometimes be better options, especially if you want to avoid harsh chemicals or if the surface is sensitive. You can also try other tried and tested methods:

● White wine vinegar and water - A natural and gentle method that dissolves nicotine deposits and neutralises odours. ● Vinegar - Vinegar neutralises odours and can help you get rid of stubborn smoke odours that have settled in furniture and textiles. ● Ammonia and water - Ammonia is stronger than vinegar but still gentler than chlorine. Make your own mixture or buy ready-made cleaning products with an ammonia base.