This Spray Sanitizer Magically Turns Tap Water Into a Non-Toxic Disinfectant

This Spray Sanitizer Magically Turns Tap Water Into a Non-Toxic Disinfectant

And yes, it works against coronavirus.

In the age of coronavirus, one of the most desirable items in every household has become the coveted sanitizer. With our drastically increased usage of cleaning agents like Lysol and Clorox, we've all started to pay more attention to what actually goes into our products—and the dangerous consequences that can happen from mishandling them.

O3 Waterworks just came out with an innovation that eases a lot of these worries. The brand’s goal is to reduce the environmental impact of commercial cleaning products, which are often chock-full of chemicals that are washed into streams and rivers. Its version uses sustainable materials to create an effective sanitizer—and all you need is running water and electricity.

Intrigued? Here’s how it works: The Sanitizing Spray Bottle ($199; o3waterworks.com) uses aqueous ozone, which is essentially ozone dissolved in water. Ozone (which has been used for over 100 years to purify and disinfect water) is a wicked oxidizing agent that reacts when it comes into contact with organic contaminants. Because it breaks down more quickly, it leaves behind only pure water on sanitized surfaces.

If you want to know how the technical science works, bear with me because it’s actually pretty simple: The formula goes from water into a crazy powerful sanitizer, then back again to water. When water goes through the filter’s proprietary electrolytic cell, an electron charge briefly turns water O2 molecules into O3 molecules that readily oxidize and destroy harmful microorganisms. After coming into contact with the surface (you can wipe it up or let it evaporate), it reverts back to its original O2 form (water) after a few minutes. This means that unlike other bleaches, disinfectants, and detergents, you don’t have to worry about lingering chemicals left behind.

The stats on aqueous ozone are pretty impressive. In addition to snuffing odors, mildew, and mold, it’s been cleared by the FDA to kill 99.9 percent of harmful germs and pathogens in just 30 seconds, including viruses like E. coli, salmonella, and coronavirus. Reviewers say it’s ideal for counters and other high-traffic areas in the home; some people even spray it on food due to its non-toxic, chlorine-free, and alcohol-free nature.

It’s obvious that the spray is good for the environment, but what about your wallet? The sticker shock might sound steep at first, but it also comes with a lot of use. The device is chargeable and good for at least 600 refills, which is estimated to last around three to five years. Considering how much we spend on individual, non-refillable cleaners, it’s a solid investment.

If you want to try the pet- and kid-friendly sanitizer (I’ve dubbed it magic water) for yourself, you can score one on their website for $199. You’ll never look back to chemical-ridden cleansers again.

To buy: $199; o3waterworks.com.