Clorox Plastic: What's The Material Make-Up?

what kind of plastic are clorox

Clorox, an American multinational manufacturer and marketer of consumer and professional products, has been working to reduce its plastic waste. The company has set sustainability targets for its brands, such as Brita, Glad, and Burt's Bees, to reduce their environmental footprint. Clorox has also introduced refillable cleaning products to cut down on plastic consumption. Clorox's original packaging was in glass bottles with cork-style rubber stoppers, which transitioned to plastic bottles in 1960. Today, the company is committed to reducing its carbon and plastic footprint and providing access to clean water to communities with poor-quality tap water.

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Clorox bottles were made of glass until 1960

Clorox bottles have undergone several design changes since the company's early days. The Electro-Alkaline Co., the forerunner of The Clorox Company, initially sold liquid bleach in unmarked glass bottles from 1918 to 1928. These bottles can be identified as Clorox bottles if they still have their paper labels.

From 1929 to 1962, Clorox packaged their bleach in proprietary glass bottles. These bottles featured distinct characteristics, such as the Clorox diamond trademark on the bottom, solid lettering on the neck and shoulder, and rubber stopper cork tops. In 1940, Clorox introduced a screw cap, and the bottles started featuring threaded necks.

However, in 1960, Clorox transitioned from glass to plastic bottles, marking a significant shift in their packaging. This change improved durability and reduced the weight of the containers, enhancing the user experience. The switch to plastic bottles also aligned with Clorox's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Today, Clorox continues to prioritize sustainability in its packaging. The company has introduced products with easily removable labels to facilitate recycling and has set goals to reduce its plastic waste and carbon footprint. Clorox's journey with bottle designs showcases its adaptability and dedication to innovation while maintaining its focus on environmental stewardship.

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Clorox bottles have been made of plastic since 1960

Over the years, Clorox continued to make adjustments to their bottles, including changes in height and width, as well as modifications to the neck style and lettering. In 1951, the company introduced outline lettering, replacing the previous solid lettering style. During this period, the content identification was moved to the side of the bottle, and a grained texture was added to the shoulder and heel.

The transition to plastic bottles in 1960 marked a significant shift for the company, moving away from glass containers. This change was likely driven by the advantages that plastic offers, such as lightweight durability, flexibility in design, and reduced production costs.

Today, Clorox continues to focus on sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. The company has introduced initiatives to decrease plastic waste, such as promoting reusable water bottles and encouraging the use of home-filtered water. Clorox has also set sustainability goals, including achieving zero plastic waste landfill by 2030 and creating completely curbside recyclable packaging using 100% recycled fibers. Additionally, Clorox has launched product lines with eco-friendly features, such as the Clorox Free & Clear line, which offers compostable wipes, disinfecting mist, and multi-surface cleaner spray that meet stringent human health and environmental safety standards.

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Clorox is trying to reduce its plastic waste

Clorox is actively working to reduce its plastic waste. The company has set a goal to reduce the virgin plastic and fibre in its packaging by 50% by 2030, with a baseline measurement taken in 2018. In 2020, Clorox launched a concentrated liquid bleach product, which reduced the plastic and fibre packaging required, while still delivering the same high-quality clean.

Clorox has also introduced refillable products, such as the Clorox Bathroom Ultra Foamer Refillable Cleaner and the Clorox Multi-purpose Refillable Cleaner, which use concentrated pods that can be refilled up to 30 times, reducing plastic usage by 80%. The company has also removed non-recyclable labels from its packaging, making 88% of its plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable.

In addition, Clorox has implemented a concentrated Clorox cleaning spray refill pilot with a major retailer, and its Burt's Bees brand has partnered with UK-based brand, Above & Beyond, to offer a refillable version of its Beeswax Lip Balm. The lip balm case is microplastic-free and designed to be reused.

Clorox is also mindful of material choices and end-of-life solutions that reduce waste. The company avoids overpackaging, limits mixed materials that are hard to recycle, and uses recycled, upcycled or plant-based materials where possible. For example, Burt's Bees Facial Towelettes are now made with upcycled cotton and are home compostable, and the brand's lip balm tubes are made with over 80% post-consumer recycled plastic.

Furthermore, Clorox supports programs that advance efficient and effective solid waste management, including the diversion of waste from landfills through the collection and recycling of packaging materials. The company is also a member of the US Plastics Pact, committing to making all plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025.

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Clorox is encouraging consumers to reuse plastic containers

Clorox is a company that manufactures cleaning products, such as bleach, wipes, sprays, and cat litter. The company has made strides in sustainability and is encouraging consumers to reuse plastic containers.

Clorox has set a goal to reduce the virgin plastic and fiber in its packaging by 50% by 2030. They have already made progress towards this goal, with 88% of their packaging being recyclable, reusable, or compostable as of 2022. Clorox has also introduced refillable products, such as the Clorox Bathroom Ultra Foamer Refillable Cleaner and the Clorox Multi-purpose Refillable Cleaner, which use concentrated pods that can be refilled up to 30 times and reduce plastic use by 80%.

In addition to their refillable products, Clorox has also made efforts to use recycled materials in their packaging. For example, their classic Beeswax and Vanilla Bean Lip Balms are now available in a 90%+ recycled paper tube, and their Burt's Bees Lip Shimmers tube is made with over 80% post-consumer recycled plastic. Clorox is also a member of the US Plastics Pact, which has commitments to make all plastic packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025.

Clorox recognizes the challenges that local governments face in managing packaging waste and supports programs that advance efficient and effective solid waste management. They are also taking steps to reduce their use of plastic packaging, such as by offering concentrated formulas that require smaller doses and less packaging.

Overall, Clorox is making significant efforts to reduce their environmental impact and encourage consumers to reuse and recycle plastic containers. By offering refillable products, using recycled materials, and supporting waste management programs, they are moving towards a more sustainable future.

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Clorox's plastic bottles should not be used with bleach

Clorox has used plastic bottles for its bleach since 1960. However, it is not advisable to use Clorox plastic bottles with bleach due to safety concerns. Bleach does not react well with certain plastics, such as polytheylene and polypropylene, and can cause oxidation, potentially leading to the release of harmful chemicals. While PVC plastic is non-reactive with bleach, it is crucial to ensure that the plastic bottle is made of the appropriate material before using it with bleach.

Clorox plastic bottles, like other plastic containers, may not be compatible with bleach. Using bleach in an incompatible plastic bottle can lead to the deterioration of the bottle over time. This can result in the bottle becoming brittle, discoloured, or cloudy, indicating that the plastic is breaking down. Additionally, the use of bleach in an incompatible plastic bottle can result in the leaching of chemicals from the plastic into the bleach solution. This can contaminate the solution and potentially pose health risks if the contaminated bleach is used for cleaning or other purposes.

The potential health risks associated with using Clorox plastic bottles with bleach are significant. When bleach reacts with certain plastics, it can cause the plastic to break down and release harmful chemicals. These chemicals can then come into contact with individuals using the bleach solution, potentially causing skin irritation, allergies, or other health issues. Therefore, it is essential to use bleach only in containers that are specifically designed for storing and dispensing bleach to minimise health risks.

Furthermore, it is important to note that Clorox plastic bottles are designed for single-use purposes. Reusing these bottles, especially with bleach, is not recommended. Reusing plastic bottles can lead to bacterial growth and the accumulation of dirt and grime, creating an ideal environment for the growth of harmful bacteria. Additionally, the constant exposure to bleach can further degrade the plastic, increasing the likelihood of chemical leaching and negatively impacting the effectiveness of the bleach solution over time.

To ensure the safe and effective use of bleach, it is recommended to follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer. When using bleach for cleaning or disinfecting purposes, always refer to the label for specific instructions and precautions. Additionally, it is advisable to use containers that are suitable for storing and dispensing bleach, such as glass or specific types of plastic containers designed for this purpose, to prevent any potential health and safety hazards.

Frequently asked questions

Clorox bottles are made of polypropylene or polyethylene plastic.

Yes, Clorox bottles are recyclable. The company is also committed to reducing its plastic waste and has set sustainability targets to lower its carbon and plastic footprint.

Clorox uses a variety of packaging materials, including glass, paper, and plant-based plastic. The company is mindful of material choices and end-of-life solutions to reduce waste.

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