Garbage Disposal Cleaner

1. Wipe or rinse out mouth.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Wash any exposed skin thoroughly with warm water.
4. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

If someone gets a garbage disposal cleaning product in the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging, which requires prompt first aid to avoid eye injury.

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

When used as intended, garbage disposal pods pose little health risk and are a convenient way to clean and freshen a kitchen sink. They remove residue and odors from the garbage disposal, leaving a fresh, clean scent. Garbage disposal cleaners often come in individual liquid pods or solid tablets that can be dropped into a running disposal for cleaning.

There are many disposal cleaners available, but a general formulation includes cleaning agents, deodorizers, and fragrances. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is often used to remove residue and absorb odors. Ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, sodium percarbonate, or citric acid may be added to create a fizzy reaction with baking soda. A foaming agent or surfactant, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, will help break up and remove grease. Essential oils, fragrances, binders, or fillers may also be added.

What happens if you accidentally swallow garbage disposal cleaner?

The ingredients in garbage disposal pods are not expected to cause serious harm if accidentally swallowed. Eating some may cause bubbling in the mouth or stomach, throat irritation, or stomach bloating. It may also cause minor nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Rarely, products can contain highly concentrated or corrosive ingredients. Have the original packaging available with the ingredients list in case of accidental exposure.

Skin contact with garbage disposal cleaners may cause minor skin irritation or rash in sensitive individuals. Rarely, ingredients can trigger allergic symptoms like itching, hives, sneezing, congestion, cough, or wheezing. If you suspect an allergic reaction, call the Poison Center or your healthcare provider for help right away.

While most garbage disposal cleaner ingredients are low risk of harm, they can be hazardous in some cases. Using basic safety precautions can help prevent poisoning. Store the product in its original packaging to avoid confusion with food or candy and keep it out of reach of children. Wash your hands with water after direct contact.

If someone has eaten a small amount of garbage disposal cleaner, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

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