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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Bleach and C.L.R. accidentally mixed

Quickstart:
     Bleach bottles warn us not to mix it with other materials -- here's the main issue: Bleach is actually chlorine gas dissolved in water. To stay dissolved, the solution is made highly alkaline; otherwise the chlorine gas comes pouring out into the air.
     Mixing bleach with any acid (CLR, Lime Away, pool acid, strong vinegar, etc.) can neutralize that alkali, and the air will fill with choking chlorine gas.

I did it and it was a BIG mistake. I was wearing a mask. But within seconds I could feel my lungs burning. Quickly opened windows and put on a fan. I feel somewhat better now an hour later.

pk kelleher
- Westchester, New York
February 26, 2023

I have done this by accident as well. And basically I created chlorine gas which I blasted into my lungs when I turned scalding hot water into the sink of chemicals. It was so bad that I immediately had an asthma attack and my dogs and cats started sneezing and coughing. I immediately opened the windows and turned the fans on to try and clear out the fumes. However for the next week I suffered with an upper respiratory infection and needed my rescue inhaler every few hours and a round of antibiotics. I definitely learned a hard lesson on the dangers of household chemicals and to always VENTILATE!!!

Andrea
- Colorado
September 20, 2024

Ed. note: Since 1989 this forum has enjoyed the camaraderie & warm aloha which real names & locations afford. If you're not into that spirit, those who do post with their real name may be less likely to engage with you.

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⇩ Related postings, oldest first ⇩

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Q. I accidentally mixed bleach ⇦ bleach/sodium hypochlorite in bulk on eBay or Amazon [affil links] with C.L.R. ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] and I realized this can't be good, I did breathe some in and was wondering what my concerns should be?

Saverio Portolesi
Hamilton, Ont, Canada
2006

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Q. Hey, I just did the same thing and now my throat is sore. As soon as they mixed my sinuses were flooded with a burning sensation. Did the feeling go away on its own or are you still suffering? I mean, WOW, I thought I was under a biological weapons attack or something; the second they mixed I was completely overwhelmed with a burning sensation in my throat, lungs, and nose. Did things work out for you? My throat doesn't feel right and I don't have money for doctors. Lesson learned though. Anyway, please post an update as to what happened. Thanks.

Adam Smith
NYC, New York
January 5, 2008

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Q. So if my daughter mixed these while cleaning and her side hurts when breathing...
... is there something to do at home to counteract the chemical?

Deborah Eldred
Mebane North Carolina
June 30, 2015

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Did constant bleach and dog urine exposure cause my heart attack?

Q. I clean at a grooming shop. Breathe bleach and dog urine every day. They do not provide breathing mask. Worked there for three years. Had a heart attack. Could that situation have caused the heart attack?

Jack Black
Sacramento California
November 20, 2017

Ed. note: Since 1989 this forum has enjoyed the camaraderie & warm aloha which real names & locations afford. If you're not into that spirit, those who do post with their real name may be less likely to engage with you.

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