The combination of these products sounds like it’d be a powerful disinfectant, but the two should never be mixed. These dangerous duos could leave you coughing and wheezing — or even explode.
1. Bleach + Vinegar – Together, they produce chlorine gas, which even at low levels, can cause coughing, breathing problems, and burning watery eyes,” says Forte of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab.
2. Baking Soda + Vinegar – “When you put them together you get mostly water and sodium acetate. But really, just mostly water.” Plus, vinegar causes baking soda to foam up. If stored in a closed container, the mixture can explode.
3. Bleach + Ammonia – Bleach and ammonia produce a toxic gas called chloramine. “It causes the same symptoms as bleach and vinegar — along with shortness of breath and chest pain,”
4. Drain Cleaner + Drain Cleaner – “These are powerful formulas and could even explode if combined.”
5. Hydrogen Peroxide + Vinegar – Combining them creates peracetic acid, which is potentially toxic and can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
6. Bleach + Rubbing Alcohol – This combination can be irritating and toxic. Make it a rule to never mix bleach with anything but plain water.
