The chlorides must be rinsed out of the textile completely to prevent further chemical reactions from occurring. These substances also react with phenolic compounds, often found in dyes. This means that colors can be altered or removed as well as stains. Chlorine also reacts with protein to break down the protein molecules, resulting in weakening of silk, wool, or hair fibers. If exposed long enough and to strong enough concentrations of hypochlorites, protein will disintegrate completely.
Residual chlorides can also react with metals to form corrosion products.
In their favor, chlorites will, however, reduce iron stains. The molds which cause brown foxing stains and blood stains are caused by iron residues which react to form iron oxides, better known as rust. These stains are nearly impossible to remove. Chlorites are one of the few bleaches which can remove or reduce these stains. Be aware, though, that often the result of removing iron stains with chlorites are losses, or holes.