More than 500 people in WC poisoned by common household cleaning products

More than 500 people in the Western Cape were poisoned by common household cleaning products in the first half of 2025.

The provincial Poisons Information Helpline logged 6 142 poisoning calls between January and June, with 514 cases linked to household items such as bleach, laundry detergent, air fresheners and polishes.

Bleach caused the largest number of incidents with 148 cases, followed by general cleaners (dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent) with 123 cases, air fresheners and deodorisers – 54 cases, polishes (floor, car, shoe) – 30 cases, and 29 cases were linked to drain cleaners.

PHOTO: Bush Radio

Of the reported household product poisonings, 243 involved children under the age of five.

A specialist at the Tygerberg Poisons Information Centre, Cindy-Lee Golding said brightly packaged and scented products can entice curious young minds, increasing the risk of accidental ingestion.

‘’Many poisoning incidents occur not from neglect, but from everyday accidents. A momentary lapse, such as leaving a bottle open or storing a cleaner within reach, can have serious consequences. Simple precautions, like locking chemicals away, using childproof caps, and educating children about the dangers, can save lives. Prevention is the most powerful protection we have.’’

According to ChildSafe, a non-profit organisation based at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, families should follow these safety tips:

·        Store poisonous products out of sight and reach of children, preferably in a locked cupboard.

·        Put poisonous substances away immediately after use.

·        Remember that childproof containers are not 100% childproof.

·        Administer medicines in a well-lit room, read instructions carefully, and follow the prescribed dose.

·        Never refer to medicines as sweets or make them attractive to children.

·        Avoid taking medicines in front of children, as they love to imitate adults.

·        Do not share medicines or store them in handbags.

·        Dispose of unnecessary medicines safely; unused medications can be returned to local clinics.

·        Keep handbags containing cosmetics out of reach.

·        Always leave chemicals and detergents in their original containers; never transfer them to drink bottles.

·        Keep loose batteries and battery-powered devices away from children; place sticky tape over the battery case if necessary.

·        Teach children about the dangers of eating anything from the garden

·        Be especially cautious when visiting other homes, as they may not have stored poisons safely.

The Tygerberg Poisons Information Centre urged families to securely store chemicals, avoid transferring cleaning products into drink containers, and maintain good ventilation while cleaning.

‘’By staying vigilant and adopting these simple safety measures, households can significantly reduce the risk of accidental poisoning,’’ said the department.

Done By: Mitchum George