We use lye for a variety of different things. Bleach does everything from lighten hair to kill germs that are present in our kitchens and bathrooms. Although bleach is very helpful, it has also been linked to various health problems. Before you decide to use this chemical, you should consider the pros and cons of using bleach.
First, as mentioned above, bleach does a great job of protecting you and your loved ones from germs and other microbes that can be dangerous to your health. Because bleach kills both viruses and bacteria, it’s a good all-purpose cleaner for “germy” areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Also, because bleach can be manufactured in the form of chlorine, it is often added to pool water to kill amoebas and bacteria in the water to protect you while you swim.
Next, bleach is well known as a bleach and brightener. For people who want to make their dark locks blonder, bleach strips the color from the hair so you can dye it the way you choose, or just leave it blonde. In addition to hair, bleach removes color from clothing. Although pure bleach can damage clothing fibers, when added as an ingredient to stain removers, it can be very effective at removing dark stains like ketchup, wine, and grass. Now, laundry detergent manufacturers can combine bleach with other chemicals to make white clothes shine without stripping them of all their color.
On the other hand, bleach can be very harmful, especially when combined with other chemicals. If inhaled as a gas, bleach fumes can cause breathing problems, headaches, unconsciousness, and nausea. Also, people with asthma and chronic bronchitis, as well as other lung disorders, should avoid these chemical fumes because they can worsen their condition.
If bleach is used with a product that contains ammonia, such as some glass cleaners, chlorine gas can be formed. Chlorine gas is so dangerous to health that it was actually used as a weapon in chemical warfare during World War I and World War II. Irritates the linings of the eyes, throat, and lungs. Because it is heavier than oxygen, it can accumulate at lower levels. If you’re using these products to clean your house, try not to keep your head down too low if you’re scrubbing floors. Also, make sure the area is well ventilated.
Lastly, bleach can also irritate the skin. If you have noticed skin redness, rashes and tenderness after swimming in a pool, the lye in the water could have caused these problems.
Your household products should warn you if they contain this toxic substance. While bleach can be helpful, you should know how to properly handle the substance and use it sparingly to protect your health. Unfortunately, product labels sometimes fail to warn consumers about hazards associated with the product, such as bleach in toilet bowl cleaners.
If you or someone you know has been injured by a product due to mislabeling, you should speak to a product liability attorney. To learn more, speak with a personal injury and product liability attorney at Habush Habush & Rottier, SC today.
