Washing dishes with powders or cleaners designed for bathrooms is not recommended. An expert from ROSBIOTECH University explains that these products should never be used for dishwashing because they can pose serious health risks.
Kitchen cleaning powders often contain anionic surfactants, substances that work well to lift stains from fabrics but can be harsh on the body. When such powders are difficult to rinse away from dishes, their residues can be transferred to food during washing. If these chemicals remain in the mouth or are ingested, they may accumulate in the body and could reduce immune resistance and potentially affect the lungs and liver over time, according to the expert.
Caustic substances like strong alkalis and acids are equally dangerous. Look for warning labels such as caution and notes about acids or alkalis on the packaging. The expert stresses that they require careful handling and protective gear, including gloves, goggles, protective aprons in high concentrations, sturdy footwear, and a respirator when needed. In the event of contact with eyes or accidental swallowing, seeking medical help promptly is essential. Burns from alkalis or acids can severely damage the eye structures and digestive tract and may lead to vision loss if the exposure is significant. Ingesting large amounts of these chemicals can injure the esophagus and stomach.
Alkalis tend to cause rapid liquefaction necrosis, and tissue damage can continue until the substance is neutralized or diluted. The expert notes that the esophagus bears greater risk than the stomach, yet both can suffer serious harm from substantial exposure.
Dishwasher detergents are generally low toxicity and low hazard. They are composed mainly of surfactants that help lift grease and food residues.
When used according to the manufacturer’s directions, these detergents usually do not pose health risks to most people. Accidental swallowing might cause a brief unpleasant sensation, but it typically does not result in lasting harm. Regardless of the level of danger, proper storage is essential: keep detergents out of reach of children, keep them in their original, tightly closed containers, and never transfer them to food or beverage containers.
Formerly a chemist emphasized the importance of safety around household products and warned about the most dangerous garden fertilizers.