Cleaning products and toxic substances: how to prevent accidents?

I found my mother-in-law drinking from a bottle where I had stored bleach. Luckily, she spat it out straight away, but it gave me a terrible fright. How can I stop her from confusing dangerous products with food or drink?

A fright like that stays with you for a long time. It's good that you reacted quickly, and it's natural that you now want to ensure it never happens again.

Why it happens

With dementia, a person stops recognising labels, colours, or smells as danger signs. A coloured liquid might look like juice. Judgement and memory no longer protect as they once did, especially if there's a habit of putting things in their mouth.

Practical strategies

• Store cleaning products, toxic substances, and detergents in a locked cupboard, away from the kitchen and food pantry.
• Never transfer products into drink bottles; keep everything in its original packaging.
• Remove detergent capsules, dishwasher tablets, and air fresheners from reach, as they can easily be mistaken for sweets.
• Also review toxic plants, alcohol, and cosmetics.
• Keep the NHS 111 number (or local emergency number) handy, which includes the Poisons Information Centre.

What NOT to do

• Do not leave products under the sink or in plain sight.
• In case of ingestion, do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.

When to seek professional help

If a toxic product has been ingested, call NHS 111 (or local emergency number) or 999 immediately and have the packaging with you to provide information. Do not wait for symptoms.

"Since that day, I've locked everything away. I've learned that I can no longer rely on her to recognise danger." — Anonymous Carer