Possible Causes for Red Urine with Bleach Addition?

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In summary, the probable cause of human urine turning a dark reddish colour after the addition of bleach could be due to the oxidation of urobilinogen to urobilin, which is naturally present in urine. It is also possible that anthraquinones from the diet or herbal laxatives could contribute to this colour change, especially if they contain phenolthalein, phenolphthalein, Correctol, or bisacodyl which can be hydrolyzed or oxidized to a hydroquinone.
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mintymurs
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Can anyone help me establish what is the probable cause of human urine turning a dark reddish colour upon the addition of an amount of bleach?

Big thank you.

mintymurs
 
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Perhaps effect of urobilinogen being oxidized to urobilin. Both are always present in the urine, the latter is much darker.

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I wonder if it could be some anthraquinones from the diet or from an herbal laxative.
In the US before 1999, phenolthalein was used as the active ingredient in Ex-Lax. I'm not sure if phenolphthalein is still in use in the UK (Australia?) but if it is and you used it, it can find it's way into the urine.
Same goes for Correctol or bisacodyl. This structure is farily easily hydrolyzed and/or oxidized to a hydroquinone.
 

FAQ: Possible Causes for Red Urine with Bleach Addition?

Why does mixing urine and bleach create a red color?

Urine contains a compound called urobilin, which is produced from the breakdown of red blood cells. When bleach, which is a strong oxidizing agent, is added to urine, it oxidizes the urobilin and causes it to turn red.

Is the red color in the mixture harmful?

No, the red color is not harmful. It is simply a chemical reaction between the urine and bleach, and does not produce any harmful substances.

Can mixing urine and bleach be used as a home pregnancy test?

No, mixing urine and bleach is not a reliable method for detecting pregnancy. While the red color may indicate the presence of urobilin, it does not necessarily mean that a person is pregnant.

What other chemicals can cause a red color when mixed with urine?

Other oxidizing agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, can also cause a red color when mixed with urine. Additionally, some medications and foods can also cause changes in urine color.

Is it safe to mix urine and bleach for cleaning purposes?

No, it is not safe to mix urine and bleach for cleaning purposes. Mixing bleach with any organic material, including urine, can produce toxic gases that can be harmful if inhaled. It is always recommended to use bleach in a well-ventilated area and to avoid mixing it with other substances.

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