Top 10+ Cleaning Supplies You Should Never Store Together (But Most People Do)

Bleach and Ammonia-Based Cleaners

Mixing bleach and ammonia, even by accident, can release toxic chloramine vapors that irritate the lungs and eyes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 3,000 annual emergency room visits in the U.S.

are linked to mixing cleaning chemicals like these. Many people unknowingly store both under the same sink, not realizing how dangerous this can be.

Vapors can escape from slightly open bottles and combine in the air, especially in cramped storage spots. The American Association of Poison Control Centers warns even indirect exposure can be harmful.

Always keep these two far apart to avoid any accidental contact.

Vinegar and Bleach

Combining vinegar, an acid, with bleach releases chlorine gas, which at high enough concentrations can be deadly. The National Capital Poison Center reported a spike in household poisonings during 2024 as people increased cleaning routines post-pandemic.

Storing both together in a caddy or cabinet increases the risk of spills or confusion. Even small amounts of chlorine gas can cause coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Experts from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend storing acids away from oxidizing agents like bleach to prevent dangerous reactions. This simple separation can be lifesaving.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Vinegar

Using hydrogen peroxide and vinegar back-to-back on a surface is sometimes touted as a cleaning hack, but if mixed together, they form peracetic acid, which is highly corrosive. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) highlights cases where accidental mixing resulted in chemical burns and irritated airways.

Storing both in a cleaning tote or under the sink can increase the risk of cross-contamination, especially if bottles are unlabeled or leak. It’s safest to keep these products on different shelves and never mix them in the same container.

Drain Cleaners and Other Household Chemicals

Drain cleaners, especially those containing sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid, are extremely reactive. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that mixing drain cleaners with other cleaners can cause violent reactions, including toxic fumes and explosions.

Many households keep various cleaners together in utility closets, raising the risk of accidental mixture. Since drain cleaners can leak or spill, storing them separately, preferably in a locked area, is advised.

Even trace amounts of other chemicals nearby can trigger dangerous reactions.

Rubbing Alcohol and Bleach

Rubbing alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol, mixed with bleach creates chloroform and hydrochloric acid, both of which are hazardous. The CDC documented several accidental poisonings in 2023 linked to improper storage and accidental mixing, especially during increased household disinfecting.

Storing both in a bathroom cabinet or cleaning supply bin is a surprisingly common mistake. Chloroform exposure can cause dizziness, nausea, and even unconsciousness.

Always keep alcohol-based products stored away from bleach to prevent any accidental combination.

Air Fresheners and Disinfectant Sprays

Air fresheners often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can react with disinfectant sprays to produce secondary pollutants like formaldehyde. Researchers at the California Air Resources Board found that levels of these pollutants can be up to five times higher indoors than outdoors if products are stored and used together in small rooms.

These hidden reactions can aggravate asthma and allergies. It’s best to store air fresheners and disinfectants in different locations, especially in homes with children or sensitive individuals.

Laundry Detergents and Stain Removers

Storing concentrated laundry detergents and strong stain removers together, especially those with oxidizers like hydrogen peroxide, can cause chemical reactions if containers leak or spill. According to a 2024 Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report, accidental poisonings from laundry supplies have risen, mostly due to improper storage and accidental mixing.

Even unopened containers can sometimes leak fumes, leading to headaches or respiratory irritation. Keep these products on separate shelves and ensure lids are tightly sealed.

Toilet Bowl Cleaners and Rust Removers

Toilet bowl cleaners often contain hydrochloric acid, while rust removers can have strong acids or reducing agents. The American Chemistry Council warns that storing them together can lead to accidental mixing, creating heat and releasing hazardous gases like chlorine or sulfur dioxide.

In 2023, several household accidents were reported due to rust remover and toilet cleaner spills in shared storage spaces. Store these products in clearly labeled, separate areas to avoid unintended reactions.

Oven Cleaners and Floor Cleaners

Oven cleaners are typically highly caustic, containing lye or ammonia, while floor cleaners may contain acids or bleach. The National Safety Council found that improper storage of these products led to nearly 2,000 accidental exposures in 2024.

If these chemicals mix, they can create toxic fumes or cause chemical burns. Many people store all-purpose cleaners together for convenience, but separating harsh oven cleaners from others is essential for safety.

Keeping them on different shelves can make all the difference.

Glass Cleaners and Multi-Purpose Cleaners

Glass cleaners often contain ammonia, while many multi-purpose cleaners have bleach or acids. The CDC has stressed that mixing these can release chloramine or other dangerous gases.

In a recent survey, over 60% of households admitted to storing these products side by side. Even a small leak can result in harmful vapors filling a storage cabinet.

For household safety, always keep ammonia-based products and bleach-based products in different cupboards or bins, and clearly label each to prevent dangerous mix-ups.