Laundry Scent Booster

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

If someone gets a laundry scent booster in the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging which requires prompt first aid to avoid an eye injury.

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

Laundry scent boosters are a newer product intended to keep clothing smelling freshly laundered even weeks after they have been washed. They come in different shapes but are generally small beads or granules that are added directly to the washing machine before putting in the clothes and beginning the wash cycle. They quickly dissolve in the wash water, and once in contact with the material, the scent adheres to the fabric, giving it a longer-lasting scent than just using detergent alone.

Are laundry scent beads toxic?

The three most common ingredients listed on laundry freshener labels are typically polyethylene glycol (PEG), fragrances, and dyes:

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)

PEG is present in a variety of products, including personal care products such as laxatives, and has industrial and pharmaceutical uses. It is a dispersant, enhancing the absorption and penetration ability of the other ingredients in the product. Specifically, in scent-boosting products, this allows the fabric to absorb the fragrance.

If the product is ingested, PEG can cause digestive upset with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances if the symptoms are prolonged. PEG can also trigger an allergic response when it comes in contact with the skin. Possible symptoms seen are redness, itching, and rash.

Fragrances and Dyes

Fragrances and dyes from laundry pearls can cause a possible allergic reaction with symptoms like hives and itching. The fragrance which is intended to be pleasant can be irritating, especially for those who are chemically sensitive or have underlying breathing conditions such as asthma or COPD.

Laundry scent beads tend to be very attractive to children; they may mistake the bright colors and pleasant scents for candy or a treat. Eating a small amount of the laundry freshener beads might cause some minor symptoms. Because they do not taste as good as they look, children typically start spitting them out at first taste.

If you find someone has eaten a small amount of laundry scent booster, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. If problems start or you have questions, 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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