What is the best practice for storing cleaning chemicals?

The best practice for storing cleaning chemicals is to keep them in their original containers and away from food. This is crucial for several reasons. First, original containers typically have labels that provide important information about the chemical, including usage instructions, hazard warnings, and emergency contact information. By keeping chemicals in their original containers, you ensure that this vital information is not lost or overlooked.

Storing cleaning chemicals away from food helps prevent any accidental contamination. Chemicals can have harmful effects if ingested or if they come into contact with food products. Keeping them in a designated storage area reduces the risk of misuse and promotes a safer environment, especially in food preparation areas.

In contrast, storing cleaning chemicals in a shared cabinet with food items poses a significant risk of cross-contamination, which can endanger health. Placing them on kitchen counters for easy access can lead to accidental spills or mishaps, particularly in busy environments where food is being prepared. Moreover, using opened containers increases the likelihood of spills and potentially exposes the chemicals to air or moisture, which might alter their effectiveness or create hazardous reactions.