Cleaning Product Safe Storage Tips when You Have Kids

From Ochsner Medical Center
    One of the biggest dangers when you have small children is the potential for them to gain access to harmful cleaning supplies and chemicals. These can be particularly dangerous if swallowed or if splashed into the eyes.
    Another potential danger involves a perfectly harmless activity: laundry. According to results from a new survey released by the American Cleaning Institute, most people aren't being careful enough with their laundry detergent pods. The research (which polled 1,000 people) found that 61% of parents store the packets or pods where kids can see or reach them. In fact, about 3 million households with children under age 4 store them right on top of the washing machine, which is a big no-no.
    “Especially because there may be an increased amount of chemicals in the homes of those who flooded, people need to be really diligent,” said Robin Shoun, NP, Ochsner Health Center – Central. “Even small amounts left unsecured can cause a major health problem. And remember, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1 if you feel it is needed.”
    Storage of Cleaning Products:
• In addition to keeping products out of reach of children, to assure child safety keep products in their original container, with the label intact.
• After each use, completely close the container. Immediately store the container in an appropriate location out of reach of children, preferably locked away in a closet or on a high shelf.
    During Use of Cleaning Products:
• Follow all recommended product instructions, and pay particularly close attention to all 'Caution', 'Warning', 'Danger', or 'Poison' statements.
• To prevent laundry pods from dissolving before use, you should always close the package and handle with dry hands.
• Clean up any cleaner of chemical spills immediately after they occur.
• Be sure to wash your hands after doing laundry, as well as any utensils you use to dispense or measure products.
• Aim to take care of the laundry and other cleaning chores during your child's downtime (such as naptime). This will help to ensure your attention is not diverted while using laundry and cleaning products to help avoid unintended exposure.
• If anything gets in the eye(s), then rinse immediately with plenty of water for 15 minutes and seek medical advice, as needed.
• If on the skin or clothing, remove contaminated clothing and rinse skin well with water.
• If swallowed, drink a glass of water or milk and contact the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) or doctor immediately. 
    For more information or to schedule a physician appointment, call 225-752-2470 or visit www.ochsner.org/batonrouge for online appointments.