Top 10 Common Household Items That Can Cause Chemical Burns

Colburn Law

Posted in Blog,Burn Injuries on November 16, 2023

Experiencing a chemical burn can be a traumatic event, often leading to physical pain and emotional distress. These injuries are particularly unsettling when they occur in the safety of your own home, where you expect to be safe from harm. However, many common household items can cause chemical burns—and understanding the risks can help you stay safe.

#1: Drain Cleaners

Drain cleaners are highly caustic and can cause severe chemical burns if they come into contact with your skin or eyes. These substances are designed to dissolve clogs, which means they can easily damage human tissue. It is essential to handle them with care, using protective gloves and eyewear.

#2: Bleach

Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent that’s effective at disinfecting and whitening. However, its high chlorine content can cause burns when it comes into contact with skin or eyes. Bleach can cause even more harm if it is mixed with other household cleaners, releasing toxic fumes.

#3: Pesticides

Pesticides, used to keep bugs and rodents at bay, contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans upon direct exposure. Wear protective clothing when applying pesticides, and make sure to store them out of reach of children and pets.

#4: Pool Sanitizers

Pool sanitizers like chlorine and bromine tablets are necessary to keep pools clean but can be dangerous if mishandled. Direct contact can result in chemical burns to the skin and the respiratory tract if fumes are inhaled.

#5: Oven Cleaners

The chemicals in oven cleaners are designed to break down tough, baked-on grime, but they can also cause burns upon skin contact. Use these products with long gloves and ensure that the area is well-ventilated.

#6: Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners

While they help maintain the aesthetics of our living spaces, carpet and upholstery cleaners can contain chemicals that irritate or burn the skin. Direct contact with these substances should be avoided, and any spills should be cleaned immediately to prevent accidental exposure.

#7: Car Battery Acid

The sulfuric acid in car batteries can cause severe burns if it leaks and comes into contact with the skin. Handling car batteries requires careful attention; this acid is capable of destroying the skin and underlying tissues, leading to injuries that demand immediate and prolonged medical care.

#8: Paint Thinner

Paint thinners are composed of organic solvents that can dissolve paint and varnish, making them invaluable in painting and refinishing. When paint thinner comes into contact with the skin, it can lead to a chemical reaction that causes the skin to inflame and degrade, resulting in a burn.

#9: Disinfectant

Disinfectants, designed to kill bacteria and viruses, often contain compounds such as phenols and alcohols. When applied to the skin, these substances can lead to chemical burns, causing the skin to become red, blister, and peel.

#10: Fertilizer

Fertilizers enhance plant growth by providing essential nutrients, often in a concentrated chemical form. These chemicals can be dangerous when they come into contact with the skin, leading to serious and sometimes long-term damage.

Contact a Seattle Burn Injury Lawyer Today

If you or someone you care about has suffered a chemical burn due to a household product, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Once you’ve taken care of your health, consider reaching out to a Seattle burn injury lawyer. An attorney can offer guidance on your rights and the potential for compensation. Remember, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath of a chemical burn alone—contact a lawyer to access the support and advocacy that you deserve.