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Detergents - Overview

Definition of Detergents:

Detergents are powerful cleaning products that may contain strong acids, alkalis, or phosphates. Cationic detergents are often used as germ-killing cleansers (antiseptics) in hospitals. Anionic detergents are sometimes used to clean carpeting. Detergent poisoning occurs when someone swallows cationic or anionic detergents.

Poisonous Ingredient:

  • Damaging (corrosive) acids, including benzalkonium chloride
  • Simple soap

Where Found:

  • Many different detergents and soaps
  • Reviewed last on: 2/27/2008
  • Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.