Cleanlink News March 16 2009
Cleaning Products: Think Twice Before Mixing
You might think it's safer or more effective to mix your own cleaning products. Think again.
According to a new survey from The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA – www.cleaning101.com), 28 percent of Americans say they have mixed their own cleaning product.
When asked what was the most important factor in deciding to try and make their own concoction, those who did so said they believed it was safer to know what was in the products (38%), they believed it was cheaper (38%), or they believed it was more effective (28%).
"When it comes to making your own cleaning products, consumers should think twice before mixing once," said Nancy Bock, SDA Vice President of Education. "There can be serious safety implications if proper care is not taken. In the frantic haste of an emergency situation, will the person who made the mix-at-home product know exactly what to tell a Poison Control Center on the phone?"
What do consumers need to consider before mixing their own concoctions?
- Labels: Homemade cleaning products aren't always stored in properly labeled containers. While you may feel confident that you know what's in them, consider the fact that a child may get a hold of them when you're not around. How would other cleaners know what's inside or what to do in an emergency if there's no label with safety instructions?
- Testing standards for safety: An incredible amount of research, development and testing goes on before formulated cleaning products ever hit the store shelves, not to mention that the products must meet all applicable federal and state quality, safety and labeling regulations. Homemade cleaners are not tested or held to any standards. An ingredient may be labeled as "natural" but that doesn't necessarily mean it's safe for ingestion.
- Testing standards for use: Untested homemade mixtures may have unforeseen consequences, such as damaging or stripping the finish from floors.
- Secure storage containers: Formulated products come with safety and precautionary language, including reminders about storing the product safely and securely. A number of products are also fitted with child resistant packaging if there are significant precautions for usage.
As a longtime supporter of National Poison Prevention Week (March 15-21), SDA reminds consumers about the proper ways to store and use cleaning products:
- Close cleaning product caps securely. Even child-resistant packaging doesn't work if the container isn't properly closed.
- Lock products up. Store them in a location that's away from children, pets and food. Install locks on cabinets and doors.
- Keep cleaning products in their original containers. If an accident occurs, the label provides information concerning the product's contents and advice on what immediate first-aid to perform.
- Carefully dispose of empty cleaning containers. Replace the caps and then discard in a sealed recycling bin or garbage container that's safe from curious children and pets.
