The internet – and the limitless wealth of information it provides – is an immeasurably useful tool for more reasons that anyone can list.

Yet though there’s seemingly no end to the advantages it brings to our daily lives, it’s perhaps the fact that it’s a bottomless well of shared knowledge that makes it arguably the greatest invention of recent centuries.

There is no topic that you can’t read up on, no answer that’s beyond your reach if you know where to look. Mysteries that would have remained elusive in all the decades up to now can be solved quite literally with a few clicks of a mouse, a few stabs at a keyboard.

Over the years we’ve seen many old myths debunked online, just as we’ve seen life-hacks and helpful hints become common knowledge, whereas once they would have been wisdoms held by only a small few.

Have you ever wondered, for example, why your underwear ends up looking like it’s been stained by a bleach spot? If you have, you’re apparently not alone, with the question being posed online by women seeking answers.

And answers they found. As it turns out, said patches of coloring have absolutely nothing to do with your machine (as some have speculated).

Dr. Vanessa MacKay, with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, explains: “The vagina has a self-cleaning mechanism through natural secretions. It contains beneficial bacteria that serve to protect it.”

As per the National Institutes of Health, the usual vaginal pH ranges between 3.8 and 5.0, making it moderately acidic in relation to the naturally neutral pH level of 7.

Dr. MacKay adds that it’s perfectly normal and healthy for women to have clear or white discharge from their vagina, while disturbing the natural balance can lead to infections.

Finding a “bleach” spot on your underwear can indicate a few things:

1. Bleach Exposure: If you use bleach or bleach-containing products for laundry, it might have accidentally splashed onto your underwear, causing the discoloration.
2. Chemical Reactions: Sometimes, certain fabrics can react with bodily fluids or other substances, leading to discoloration that resembles bleach stains.
3. Stains from Other Products: Certain personal care products, like lotions or medications, can also cause bleaching effects on fabrics.

If it’s a recurring issue, you might want to check the products you’re using or the washing methods to prevent it from happening again.

To prevent bleach stains in the future, you can follow these tips:

1. Use Color-Safe Products: Opt for color-safe bleach alternatives or laundry detergents that are designed to be safe for colored fabrics.
2. Separate Whites and Colors: Always wash white and colored items separately to avoid any potential color transfer or bleach exposure.
3. Be Careful with Cleaning Products: When using bleach for cleaning, ensure you’re wearing protective clothing and avoid splashing.
4. Check Labels: Read the care labels on your clothing to ensure you’re using the appropriate washing methods and products.
5. Store Bleach Safely: Keep bleach and other harsh chemicals in a secure place to avoid accidental spills.

By being mindful of these practices, you can help protect your clothes from bleach stains!