Mixing two common household cleaners, vinegar and ammonia, is a dangerous practice that should be avoided. While this combination does not produce the highly toxic chlorine gas that results from mixing either of these substances with bleach, it creates its own set of serious hazards. The danger stems from a rapid chemical reaction that diminishes cleaning power and generates irritating airborne compounds. This fine salt mist is highly irritating to the mucous membranes of the body.
The Expected Chemical Reaction
When vinegar (a dilute solution of acetic acid) is combined with ammonia (a weak base), they immediately undergo a neutralization reaction. This reaction forms ammonium acetate and water. The neutralization essentially cancels out the cleaning properties of both the acid and the base, leaving behind a less effective cleaning agent.
The reaction is exothermic, meaning it generates heat. While this heat generation may not be dramatic in typical household concentrations, using concentrated solutions can cause a vigorous reaction. The resulting temperature increase can cause the mixture to boil or splatter out of the container, leading to direct chemical exposure and physical injury.
Mixing these two cleaners within a closed container, such as a spray bottle, introduces another physical danger. The heat generated by the neutralization, combined with the volatility of ammonia, causes pressure to build up rapidly. This pressure can result in the container rupturing or exploding, forcefully expelling the hot, irritating chemical mixture onto the user.
Understanding the Irritants Produced
The newly formed chemical, ammonium acetate, is not a deadly gas like chlorine, but it poses a serious respiratory hazard because of how it becomes airborne. As the reaction occurs, the ammonium acetate is released into the air as a fine particulate matter or salt mist. This fine salt mist is highly irritating to the mucous membranes of the body.
Inhaling these fumes can cause immediate and severe irritation to the entire respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, and lungs. Symptoms often include a burning sensation, persistent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The irritating effects on the eyes are also immediate, leading to burning, redness, and excessive tearing.
For individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, exposure to these fumes can be particularly dangerous, potentially triggering an attack. Even in healthy individuals, concentrated exposure can lead to chemical pneumonitis, an inflammation of the lungs. The compound can also irritate and burn the skin upon contact, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
Safe Cleaning Practices and What to Do If Exposure Occurs
Never mix any cleaning products. Reading the labels on all cleaning products before use helps prevent accidental mixing. If switching between an acidic cleaner like vinegar and a basic cleaner like ammonia, ensure the surface is thoroughly rinsed with water and completely dry before applying the second product.
If exposure to the irritating fumes occurs, the immediate priority is to move the affected person to an area with fresh air. If the fumes have made contact with the eyes, they must be flushed immediately with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Any contact lenses should be removed during the flushing process.
In the event of skin contact, the contaminated area should be washed with large amounts of water and soap. Contaminated clothing should be removed quickly. If breathing difficulties arise, if a cough or wheezing persists, or if the eye or skin irritation does not subside after flushing, seek medical attention immediately. Calling a poison control center or emergency services can provide immediate, specific guidance.