Routine Skin-Care Measures: Dilute Bleach Baths

Bleach baths are commonly used in patients with atopic dermatitis. Household bleach of any brand can be used. Of course, care should be taken to avoid direct skin contact with bleach and to prevent unsafe storage that could lead to accidental exposure.

To prepare the bleach bath in a full-sized bathtub:

• Add ¼ cup of household bleach to a ¼ full bathtub 
• Add ½ cup of household bleach to a ½ full bathtub

If the child is being bathed in an infant tub:  

• Add 2 tsp of household bleach to 2L of water

Patients soak in the prepared tub for 10-15 minutes, with care not to get water in the eyes, and then rinse off before patting dry.  Moisturizer should be applied all over after bathing. Bleach baths can be repeated several times per week.