Common Names: Oxygen Bleach, Solid Hydrogen Peroxide, Sodium Carbonate Peroxide
Function: Whitening agent, stain remover, deodorizer
EWG Rating: 1-2 (Low Concern)
What It Is
Sodium percarbonate is a crystalline compound composed of sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide. It serves as a solid, stable form of oxygen bleach. When dissolved in water, it breaks down into its two components, releasing hydrogen peroxide that acts as a powerful oxidizer.
What It Does in Laundry
Sodium percarbonate functions as a bleach alternative without the harsh effects of chlorine. In detergent and booster formulas, it:
- Whitens and brightens: Oxidizes and lifts stains from white and light-colored fabrics.
- Deodorizes: Breaks down odor-causing compounds at the molecular level.
- Boosts stain removal: Enhances the performance of surfactants and enzymes.
It is effective on protein-based, tannin, and oily stains, and is commonly used as a laundry additive or in multi-purpose cleaning powders.
Safety and Environmental Profile
- Biodegradability: Breaks down into water, oxygen, and sodium carbonate.
- Human safety: Non-toxic when used as directed. Can cause eye and skin irritation in concentrated form; diluted during use.
- Environmental impact: Low. Degrades rapidly and does not persist or bioaccumulate.
Source and Production
Sodium percarbonate is produced by combining hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate under controlled temperature and pressure conditions. This reaction forms a dry, free-flowing crystalline powder that contains a stable ratio of hydrogen peroxide encapsulated within a soda ash matrix.
Though not found in nature, sodium percarbonate is made from simple, mineral-based ingredients and does not involve petrochemical solvents or complex synthetic additives. The manufacturing process yields a shelf-stable compound that remains dry and inactive until dissolved in water—at which point it releases hydrogen peroxide for whitening and stain removal.
Because it breaks down into oxygen, water, and soda ash, sodium percarbonate is widely recognized as a low-toxicity, environmentally responsible alternative to chlorine bleach in laundry and cleaning products.
This profile is part of Orchard’s Ingredient Glossary, written to provide information on every component we use.