What happens when you mix Harpic with bleach?

Mixing Harpic with bleach can release toxic chlorine gas, leading to severe respiratory irritation and potential lung damage.

Can mixing toilet cleaners cause lung damage?

Yes, mixing certain toilet cleaners can produce toxic fumes that irritate airways and may cause permanent lung injury.

What is Reactive Airway Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS)?

RADS is a condition caused by severe irritation and spasm of the airways, often triggered by inhaling toxic fumes.

Home / Health / Toxic Fumes from Cleaner Mix Send Woman to ER

Toxic Fumes from Cleaner Mix Send Woman to ER

11 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Mixing red and blue Harpic produced toxic fumes.
Toxic fumes caused Reactive Airway Dysfunction Syndrome.
Never mix Harpic with bleach, acids, or other cleaners.

Toxic Fumes from Cleaner Mix Send Woman to ER

A trip to the emergency department underscores the critical dangers of mixing household cleaning products. A patient experienced a severe reaction after combining red and blue Harpic while cleaning her bathroom. The mixture released toxic fumes, including chlorine gas, which rapidly led to breathlessness and collapse.

The toxic gases produced are known to trigger Reactive Airway Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS), a serious condition involving irritation and spasm of the airways. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for permanent lung injury from inhaling such fumes, particularly for individuals with allergies or asthma.

Health professionals strongly advise against mixing cleaning agents like Harpic with bleach, acids, or other chemicals. Such combinations can generate hazardous gases that pose significant risks to respiratory health, emphasizing the importance of using cleaning products safely and as directed.