Will Clorox Kill Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus is an infection caused by the presence of fungi. Nail fungus often begins as a simple white or yellow area beneath the nail but can quickly progress to causing the entire nail to discolor, thicken and even crumble. There are several treatment options available for toenail fungus, but the use of standard Clorox bleach is a time-tested remedy that many people decide to use.

Kill Toenail Fungus with Clorox

Clorox is a brand name of bleach, and it can be used to kill infection-causing fungus. Mix half of a teaspoon per gallon of water and soak your feet in the mixture one to two times per day, 30 minutes each time, for several weeks. The bleach chlorinates the water, which in turn soaks into the nail fungus and kills the fungi. In case of skin irritation, reduce the amount of bleach used, or soak your feet less frequently.

Alternative Treatments

Besides prescription medical and physician-administered treatments, the Mayo Clinic suggests the use of white vinegar or Vicks VapoRub might cure toenail fungus. Soak your feet in a mixture of one-third vinegar and two-thirds warm water daily. If irritation occurs, soak your feet only two to three times per week, or add additional water to the mixture.

Vicks VapoRub can be applied directly to toes affected by fungus, but you should speak to your physician to find out how often it should be applied and for how long the product should remain on your toe(s).

Tips

Trim down your toenails as much as possible to give the bleach and water mixture easy access to the toenail fungus.

You should speak to your physician before trying any home remedies for fungus infections 1.