Detergents are an essential household item that is used for cleaning and washing clothes, dishes, and surfaces. However, not all detergents are created equal, and mixing certain detergents can be hazardous to your health.
It is crucial to understand which detergents should never be mixed to avoid any dangerous consequences. Here are six detergents that you should never mix:.
1. Ammonia and Bleach
When ammonia and bleach are mixed, it creates a highly toxic gas called chloramine. This gas can cause respiratory problems, chest pain, and even death. The mixture can also cause skin irritation and burns.
Never mix ammonia and bleach, even in a diluted form.
2. Bleach and Vinegar
Bleach and vinegar are two powerful cleaning agents. However, when these two are mixed, it creates a toxic gas called chlorine gas.
The mixture can also produce hydrochloric acid, which can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Avoid mixing bleach and vinegar at all costs.
3. Bleach and Rubbing Alcohol
Mixing bleach and rubbing alcohol can produce chloroform, a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid used as an anesthetic. Chloroform can cause dizziness, nausea, headache, and vomiting. It can also damage the nervous system and liver.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide and Vinegar
While hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are effective cleaning agents, they should never be mixed. When mixed, the combination can form peracetic acid, which is highly corrosive and can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation.
The mixture can also cause coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
5. Bleach and Dish Soap
Bleach and dish soap should never be combined. Dish soap is a neutralizing agent and can cause chlorine gas to be released when mixed with bleach. The mixture can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even death.
6. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are popular cleaning agents used to unclog drains. However, when mixed, the combination can produce carbon dioxide gas, which can cause breathing difficulties and lightheadedness.
The mixture can also cause eye and skin irritation.
It is crucial to read the labels and instructions of all cleaning agents, including detergents. Mixing certain detergents can be hazardous and can lead to serious health problems.
Always use cleaning agents based on their intended purpose and avoid mixing them to ensure your safety.