Have you ever poured drain cleaner down the sink or toilet and then reached for a cleaning spray? It might seem harmless, but mixing cleaning products can be dangerous.
The dangers of mixing cleaning products
Each cleaning product has its own hazards, but when you combine them with other cleaning products they can produce gases, liquids or fumes that are harmful to people and pets.
These can build up quickly indoors, and can cause serious illness or death.
Mixing the following can create toxic fumes and chemicals:
- bleach and ammonia
- bleach and vinegar
- bleach and rubbing alcohol
- hydrogen peroxide and vinegar
- different types of drain cleaner
If a drain cleaner does not work, do not add another product. Contact a plumber for advice.
Products that should not be mixed with bleach
Do not mix bleach with:
- ammonia
- vinegar
- oven cleaners
- bathroom or toilet cleaners
- glass and window cleaners
- lemon juice or other acidic products
These all have the potential to cause dangerous chemical reactions.
Natural cleaning products
Natural products are not always safe when mixed with other chemicals.
For example, mixing bleach with vinegar or lemon juice can create dangerous gases.
Using cleaning products safely
To reduce the risk of chemical accidents:
- read and follow the instructions on the label
- keep products in their original containers
- store products out of reach of children and pets
- keep products in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place
- rinse surfaces thoroughly before using a different cleaning product
- allow time between using different products
- make sure there is good ventilation when cleaning
- dispose of unwanted chemicals safely - contact your local council for advice
- make sure your whole household follow these rules
Symptoms of exposure to toxic chemicals
Exposure can cause:
- coughing
- chest pain
- breathing difficulties
- throat irritation
- burning eyes
- chemical burns
Longer term exposure can cause chronic bronchitis and reduced lung function. Severe exposure can be life-threatening.
Children, older people and people with existing health conditions may be at greater risk of harm.
If you have been exposed to dangerous chemicals
If you think you have been exposed to dangerous chemicals:
- leave the area immediately and get fresh air
- call 999 and tell emergency services which products were being used, if known
- remove contaminated clothing
- rinse any affected skin with plenty of water
- seek medical advice, even if symptoms seem mild. This can prevent respiratory complications later on.
- If you’re performing CPR on someone who has been exposed to toxic chemicals bear in mind that mouth-to-mouth resuscitation could put you at risk of contamination. If you don’t know what they’ve been exposed to, use chest compressions only.
- Check on your neighbours in case they have been affected. Advise them to move to a safe area.