“There are two types of cleaning products: bleach and things that should never be mixed with bleach”. To what extent is this true? And why?

Question

u/shaneoffood posted this comment in a discussion about unscented laundry detergents.

I’m familiar with the fact that ammonia and bleach creating something like chlorine gas, and I get that mixing different elements can cause them to react.

But is the original comment a good rule of thumb? Are there exceptions? And why do they make “the best” cleaning products?

In: 491

Answer 1

The original comment is a good rule of thumb because bleach is a strong oxidizing agent, meaning it can react with other chemicals in a way that can be dangerous or harmful. Mixing bleach with certain other chemicals can create toxic gases, which can be dangerous to inhale.
For example, mixing bleach with ammonia can create chlorine gas, which can cause respiratory problems, nausea, and other health issues. Mixing bleach with acids, such as vinegar or lemon juice, can produce chlorine gas or other dangerous byproducts.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. Some cleaning products may contain bleach and other ingredients that are safe to mix together. It is important to read the labels of cleaning products and follow the instructions carefully to ensure safe use.
Bleach is a popular cleaning product because it is effective at killing germs and removing stains. However, it is important to use it safely and in accordance with the instructions on the label. Using too much bleach or mixing it with other chemicals can be dangerous and harmful to both people and the environment.