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Question
Are powdered cleaners safer than liquid?
Answer
There is no relation between risk and the form a cleaner takes, for example powdered (Borax, etc.) or liquid (Chlorox, Tilex, etc.). Products containing hypochlorite (for example, Clorox and Tilex) are registered disinfectants. They do that job well. Their risks have to do with irritation of skin or eyes. Also they should not be mixed with acids or bases because they will form gases such as chlorine that have a high risk. Borax also has eye irritation risk, but does not form any chlorine gases. It is not a reliable disinfectant.
Answered by: Ann T. Lemley, Ph.D.
Last Reviewed: 05.03.06
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