07/04/2026
CAUSTIC HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS are acidic or alkaline. They come in the form of liquids, powders or granules or are contained in aerosols. The most common caustic products found in the home are drain unblockers, oven cleaners and laundry stain removers.
Caustic household products cause burns on contact with the skin, eyes and gastrointestinal tract. The burns usually occur instantly. The injury cannot be reversed, only treated.
Advice on preventing corrosive injury from caustic household products;
🔴 Purchase a caustic product for use in the home only if nothing else will do the job.
🔴 Purchase only the amount that you need.
🔴 Store the product safely, preferably locked away and out reach and sight of children.
🔴 Store products in their original containers with the child resistant cap secured tightly.
🔴 NEVER transfer caustic products into drinks bottles.
🔴 Always read and follow the manufacturer's directions of use carefully.
🔴 Wear gloves, protect your skin and open windows if the label says to do so.
🔴 NEVER use caustic products when children are around.
🔴 NEVER mix caustic products with any other household cleaning products.
Advice on FIRST AID measures following exposure to caustic household products;
🟢 If a caustic product is swallowed ALWAYS seek medical advice before taking/giving fluids to drink.
🟢 If you inhale fumes from a caustic product, get to fresh air immediately. Seek medical advice if you are coughing or short of breath.
🟢 If a caustic product comes in contact with the eye, irrigate the eye immediately with running water for 10-15 mins and seek medical advice.
🟢 If a caustic product comes in contact with the skin, irrigate the exposed area of skin with running water for 10-15 mins. Seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
Call the Poisons Centre on 01-8092166 if you or your child have been exposed to caustic household products.
