- Social Media Blogs, Videos Portray Unsafe Use of Cleaning Products
The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) issued the following safety reminder in the wake of news reports on social media videos portraying individuals ingesting powder detergents and additives:
“Powdered detergent and additives are only intended to clean clothes and other surfaces and have been safely used by consumers for decades.
“Although safe when used as directed, the intentional misuse of these products is dangerous and poses a significant threat to consumers’ health.
“Powdered detergent and laundry additives should not be used as a personal care product nor a dietary supplement and may be harmful if swallowed or if eye contact is made.
“If inadvertently ingested or eye contact occurs, immediately call a physician. While no long-lasting effects should materialize, irritation and/or an upset stomach may result. Rinse out the mouth and eyes, but do not induce vomiting.
“Also keep handy the phone number of Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.
“The health and safety of consumers is of utmost importance, and laundry products – like any other household product – should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.”
The American Cleaning Institute® (ACI – www.cleaninginstitute.org) is the Home of the U.S. Cleaning Products Industry® and represents the $60 billion U.S. cleaning product supply chain. ACI members include the manufacturers and formulators of soaps, detergents, and general cleaning products used in household, commercial, industrial and institutional settings; companies that supply ingredients and finished packaging for these products; and chemical distributors. ACI serves the growth and innovation of the U.S. cleaning products industry by advancing the health and quality of life of people and protecting our planet. ACI achieves this through a continuous commitment to sound science and being a credible voice for the cleaning products industry.