Netizens have testified to unpleasant experiences after mixing popular hygiene and sanitation brand Hypo Bleach alongside Hypo Toilet Cleaner.
Hypo brand has been in existence since 2011, with the bleach as the main product which has become a common cleaning product in most Nigerian homes.
In 2018, the hygiene brand also introduced another cleaning product ‘Hypo Toilet Cleaner’.
While sharing their experiences about the product, A tweep in February, @DebbieOA, said her insides felt clogged after mixing the two products to clean.
Similarly, another tweep in January recounted that she almost choked to death after mixing the substance
But the Hypo Company has called on the public to desist from combining the duo, saying it can be harmful.
However, this toxicity is not limited to the Hypo brand of bleach and toilet cleaner. In 2021, NigerianTribune reports that one Eniola Oyemolade experienced a burning sensation in her throat after mixing bleach and toilet cleaner.
Why Mixing Bleach And Toilet Cleaner is Toxic
Bleach is a disinfectant commonly used for whitening and cleaning. Many toilet cleaners contain acid or ammonia to target specific types of stains and germs. Unfortunately, mixing bleach with these acidic or ammonia-based toilet cleaners can create harmful gases.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Bleach (likely sodium hypochlorite): This is the disinfecting ingredient that gives bleach its whitening power.
- Toilet cleaners (often acidic or contain ammonia): These target different types of stains and germs than bleach.
Mixing these two types of cleaners can create harmful gases:
- Chlorine gas: This occurs when bleach mixes with acid in toilet cleaners. Chlorine gas irritates the eyes, nose, and throat, and in high concentrations, can be fatal.
- Chloramine gas: This gas forms when bleach mixes with ammonia, another common ingredient in toilet cleaners. Chloramine gas also irritates the respiratory system and can be dangerous.
- Chlorine gas: This gas is formed when bleach mixes with the acid in toilet cleaners. Chlorine gas irritates the eyes, nose, and throat. Inhaling high concentrations can be fatal.
- Chloramine gas: This gas forms when bleach mixes with ammonia, another ingredient found in some toilet cleaners. Chloramine gas also irritates the respiratory system and can be dangerous.
People who accidentally inhale the fumes from mixing bleach and toilet cleaner may experience a range of health problems, depending on the severity and duration of exposure. These problems can include:
- Coughing, watering eyes, and sore throat
- Difficulty breathing and chest tightness
- Blurred vision or even blindness
- Skin irritation, burning, and blistering
- Nausea and vomiting
As Hypo brand advises, never mix bleach and toilet cleaner. Always use cleaning products according to the instructions on the label.If you accidentally mix them, open windows for ventilation and leave the area immediately. If you experience any concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
