Is Bleach safe during pregnancy?
Fine to clean with as directed. Open a window, wear gloves, and never mix it with ammonia or other cleaners.
What the sources say
MotherToBaby notes chlorine and chlorinated disinfectants have not been shown to increase the risk of birth defects, and normal skin or breathing exposure is low. CDC/NIOSH says household disinfectants used by adults according to directions are generally not considered hazardous. Limits: ventilate (window or exhaust fan), wear gloves for longer jobs, never mix with ammonia or other cleaners, and get fresh air if you feel dizzy or short of breath. MotherToBaby says inhaled or skin-absorbed cleaner compounds are not expected to reach breast milk in meaningful amounts.
Also listed as
bleach spray, chlorine bleach, chlorine cleaner, clorox, clorox bleach, household bleach, liquid bleach, sodium hypochlorite
Sources
- MotherToBaby: What's the Dirt on Household Cleaners When Pregnant?
- CDC: About Chemical Disinfectants and Sterilants and Reproductive Health
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.