Is Pine SOL Toxic to Breathe? Here’s What We Found Out
Cleaning can sometimes be a laborious endeavor. At times like this, it can be quite natural to become a bit careless and that is when cleaning products can get in places they shouldn’t.
If you use Pine SOL, then the thought must have crossed your mind – “What would happen if I inhaled some Pine SOL?” Is Pine SOL Toxic to Breathe? Let us clear this doubt once and for all.
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Pine SOL isn’t meant for your respiratory system
Pine SOL’s main objective is to eradicate germs on the various surfaces of your home. This does not mean that it should get on the inner surfaces of your respiratory system such as the nasal passages, windpipe, lungs, etc. If Pine SOL somehow ends up in one of these places, it can cause a wide variety of issues.
This is due to the corrosive nature of some of the chemicals that make up Pine SOL. The effect these chemicals can have upon inhalation can vary wildly from individual to individual. However, it can be said with some certainty that whatever effect inhalation of Pine SOL has on you, it won’t be a pleasant one.
Some of the problems that can be caused by inhaling Pine SOL
As we alluded to earlier, the effects of Pine SOL on the human respiratory tract can be very different from person to person. However, the most common health problems are listed below:
- Irritation of the mucous membrane
- Nausea and headache
- Loss of consciousness
- Allergic reaction and difficulty breathing
- Burning sensation in the eyes and nose
What to do if you accidentally inhale Pine SOL?
The first step is to ensure that you get out in the open and start taking deep breaths of fresh air. It is also important not to panic as that will elevate your heart rate and your breathing rate which will only make things worse. If this helps then give it some time and you should be fine.
If, on the other hand, there is no improvement or you feel like you are about to lose consciousness, call emergency medical help. If you encounter someone who has trouble breathing or is unconscious, call emergency medical help immediately. In the meantime, make the affected person lie down and administer CPR if they are still not able to breathe.
As you can see, things can get quite hairy. Prevention is always better than cure and it is absolutely imperative to ensure that Pine SOL is not inhaled by you. Always use it in a diluted form and with proper ventilation. If you need a strong solution of Pine SOL then ensure that you use it while wearing masks.
In areas with poor ventilation, look for alternatives to Pine SOL. Children are particularly vulnerable to the ill-effects of inhaling Pine SOL. It should not be used around them and under no circumstances should they be allowed to use or play with Pine SOL.
While cleanliness is important, it shouldn’t come at the cost of your or your family’s well-being.
