Are we doing this wrong? How to store and dispose of household chemicals

How to read hazard labels on household chemicals?

In Russia, manufacturers of household chemicals are required to warn consumers about the danger. To do this, text and graphic information is applied to the packaging - you've probably seen red warning signs, for example, on toilet bowl cleaners. Let's figure out what exactly these symbols mean.

Everything is clear here - the image of a flame indicates that the substance is flammable. The sign can be found on aerosol packages.

Says that upon contact with skin, eyes or mucous membranes (for example, when swallowed), the product causes allergies, irritations - in other words, it causes harm. Most often, buyers of toilet bowl cleaners are warned with an exclamation mark.

The product can corrode metals and also cause chemical burns if it comes into contact with the skin. This marking is left on household chemicals containing acids. Often applied to grease removers.

This is an oxidizing agent that can cause or intensify fire. Can be found, for example, in bleaches with the addition of chlorine.

These are the designations that are most often found on household chemicals. But there are others, for example,the image of a skullindicates that the drug can be deadly if swallowed. Dry wood and dead fish indicate that the composition contains substances toxic to aquatic organisms.

These and other signs tell us how to properly store dangerous products and what to do if the product does get on the skin or mucous membranes. That is why it is important to be able to read them.

How to properly store household chemicals?

This is important, because as we found out, it is on the packaging that there is information about storage precautions - they are prescribed by the manufacturer. Once the product has run out, do not reuse the bottle or refill the product immediately after purchase. Even if it is safe and does not have special marks, we simply lose information about the expiration date and method of use.

2. Household chemicals have no place under the sink

Most often, household chemicals are stored under the sink - but this is not the best place. Firstly, this way the products are easily accessible to children and animals. And secondly, they deteriorate faster due to high humidity and heat. It is better to choose a higher and drier place.

3. We store acids and alkalis separately

Unlike the general rule, products with acids and alkalis are best stored on the floor and, preferably, on a pallet. If such a jar falls or spills, the consequences will not be pleasant, especially if the product manages to mix with another.

4. We monitor the expiration date

Household chemicals that have expired lose their effectiveness, but this is the lesser of the evils. Some products can become toxic and, when decomposed, cause irritation and burns. In any case, it is better to throw away such a product.

5. Bulk products should be stored on the lower shelves

One ​​awkward movement and the powder crumbled. While cleaning, you will most likely inhale a significant amount of the product; we won’t even mention the harm to children or animals, who will probably want to touch and smell the powder. It is better if the powders are stored steadily and on the lower shelves.

These are just some of the few rules for storing household chemicals. Along with recommendations about suitable temperature (up to +25 degrees Celsius), protection from direct sunlight and avoiding mixing with other products, they protect the home from danger and prolong the effectiveness of the products.

How to properly dispose of household chemicals?

After use, everything does not end, now the packaging of the product needs to be disposed of. Here are some rules that will help you avoid hazardous consequences for health and the environment.

Especially when it comes to acids or aerosols. Packages with product residues are literally dangerous.

In the case of bleaches, disposal of product residues is allowed. It can be flushed down the toilet using a large amount of water, unless the manufacturer indicates otherwise.

Tighten the lid tightly before disposing of the packaging. Otherwise, the remaining product will leak out - mix with other substances or penetrate into the soil.