Abstract: An apparatus for producing a cleaning solution. Specifically, the apparatus of some embodiments includes a reservoir for containing sodium chlorite. A disposable ion exchange cartridge is placed in fluid communication with the sodium chlorite reservoir via a conduit. The ion exchange cartridge is selectively disconnectable from fluid communication with the sodium chlorite reservoir or from the conduit. Generally, the ion exchange cartridge will be disconnected and replaced when the ion exchange materials in the cartridge are depleted or exhausted. A catalyst can also be placed in fluid communication with the sodium chlorite reservoir. The catalyst can be contained in disposable or selectively disconnectable cartridge that can be easily replaced when depleted. In another aspect of the invention, a color comparison chart is positioned adjacent a conduit to allow one to compare the color of the solution to the chart and determine the concentration of the solution.