Hypochlorite killing of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

We tested in vitro hypochlorite (bleach) killing of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates to determine optimal concentration and duration. For all isolates maximal killing, >3-log decrease in colony forming units (CFU), was found after 5 minutes in 2.5 mu L/mL bleach. We estimate that 2.5 mu L/mL bleach is approximately one-half cup of bleach in one-quarter tub of water.