Can I mix bleach and ammonia?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to clean the windows and wipe down the sink, and you grabbed both the glass cleaner and the bleach spray.

Everyday mishaps add up.

Causes & evidence

No. Bleach plus ammonia creates toxic chloramine gas. See cleaning chemical safety.

What to do

1. Check labels for ammonia.
2. Never combine.
3. Ventilate.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: not realizing that many glass cleaners contain ammonia, as do some multi-purpose cleaners. Bleach plus ammonia makes chloramine vapors, which can cause coughing, shortness of breath and chest pain. Always read ingredient lists. If you need both products for a cleaning session, use them on different days or different areas, and rinse surfaces in between. Ventilate well. Never mix bleach with anything except water, unless the label says so. Use one product per surface, finish, rinse, then move on. Remember that bleach and acidic cleaners, like some rust removers, also shouldn't mix. Label any spray bottles you refill.

Speed Man tip: Store separately.

Wrap-up: Labels. Never. Ventilate.