Study Links Laundry Detergent Pods to Injuries in Children

Household chores can become tedious and time-consuming. In a quest to cut down on everyday tasks like dishwashing and laundry, many people turn to laundry detergent pods. Instead of scooping out crystals or pouring liquid detergent into the washing machine, you can simply grab an individually-wrapped pod and toss it in.

What few people realize is that these convenient little packages are a poison hazard for young children. According to a new study published in the health journal, Pediatrics, detergent pods pose a significant safety threat to young kids.

Alarming Statistics about Detergent Pods

Researchers from the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital looked at data gathered from the National Poison Data System between 2013 and 2014. What they found revealed a serious risk associated with the brightly-colored detergent pods. Of all the accidental poisoning incidents reported, 35 percent were caused by laundry detergent pods. Every 45 minutes, someone reports a child has been poisoned by a detergent pod.

Part of the reason the pods are so toxic to kids is that they contain very concentrated amounts of detergent. Unlike detergent in liquid of powder form, the detergent in pods is extremely dense.

Researchers says the pods are particularly appealing to children because they are small, come in fun colors, and resemble candy or juice. Once children put them in their mouths, the water-soluble membrane quickly dissolves, delivering a toxic dose of detergent.

Keeping Laundry Pods Out of Children’s Reach

Safety experts say parents who use laundry detergent pods can protect their kids by keeping the pods out of their children’s reach. Store them high up, where kids can’t get to them. Parents should also consider keeping the pods in a cabinet or out of sight, so children aren’t tempted to climb to get them.

Boston and Brockton Personal Injury Lawyers

Personal injuries are always difficult. When a child is injured, it is even more devastating. If your child has been injured by a defective or dangerous product, it’s important to get in touch with a personal injury attorney right away. The personal injury and product liability lawyers at Joel H. Schwartz, P.C. are here to help. You and your child may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other damages. Call us today at (617) 742-1170 to discuss your case.

This website has been prepared by Joel H. Schwartz, P.C. for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.