Bleaching agents are products that are normally used in the household. They are usually used in the kitchen, bathroom or washing machine, both for cleaning and disinfecting. Inhaling the vapours from bleach can be harmful to your health.

Bleach is inhaled during household cleaning or laundry. The best way to avoid the gases is to keep the windows open or wear a mask. The products should only be used in accordance with the instructions and should be wiped up immediately if accidentally spilt. Bleach diluted with water has a lower concentration of harmful substances, but often has almost the same disinfecting or cleaning effect as undiluted bleach.

The corrosive vapours from the bleaching agents can cause tissue damage in the windpipe and lungs. This damage is not caused by inhaling the vapours once, but continuously. 

The toxic vapours not only enter the respiratory tract. Bleaching agents have a pH value of over 8 and are therefore alkaline. They can therefore settle on the skin and leave a slippery film. To remove the film on the skin, it is best to use acidic products such as vinegar or lemon juice. You should avoid contact with your nose and mouth until the bleaching agent has completely neutralised on the skin, as the vapours can settle in the skin and be inhaled in this way. 

High concentrations of bleaching agents can cause burning eyes, nasal irritation and coughing. Frequent inhalation of highly concentrated substances can cause chronic bronchitis and hyperventilation, in extreme cases even death. Protective clothing, gloves and a respirator should be worn when working with highly concentrated bleaching agents. Any symptoms such as coughing, nausea, shortness of breath, watery eyes, irritated throat, nose and eyes and wheezing should be reported to a doctor immediately.