I try to avoid using Chlorine Bleach when washing any clothing or textiles. Chlorine does kill bacteria but it also never completely comes out of clothes. If you have ever swam in an indoor pool, you know that no amount of washing will remove the odor of chlorine that clings to bathing suits. Over time, chlorine also causes the suits to deteriorate.
Thanks for the information about the cancer-causing dioxins. I am not at all surprised.
Chlorine is not, of course, the only bleach. There are oxy-cleaners and also products whose active ingredient is sodium perborate which can even take care of some mildew stains.
Best,
Pat, author of Straight Talk about Quilt Care
www.quiltersmuse.com