Ammonia, a colorless gas or liquid with a sharp irritating odor, can be found in household cleaners, wax removers, glass and window cleaners, and oven cleaners. In strong concentrations, such as may be found in commercial products, ammonia vapors and liquids can be corrosive causing severe burns and irritation to the skin, eyes, and lungs. Household ammonia contains 5-10% ammonia and is considered to be an irritant rather than a corrosive hazard. Vapors, even in low concentrations, can cause severe eye, lung, and skin irritation. Chronic irritation may occur if ammonia is used over long periods of time.
Do not mix ammonia with chlorine bleach or bleach products! When ammonia and bleach are mixed, a chloramine gas results which can cause coughing, loss of voice, feeling of burning and suffocation, and even death.
Ammonia inhalers are sometimes mistaken by children for candy. These inhalers or smelling salts will cause burns to the lips and mouth if chewed.
Use: Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator with an ammonia cartridge. Use ammonia only in well-ventilated areas where there is plenty of fresh air.
Storage: Store away from children.
Disposal: Empty containers can be thrown in the trash. It is best to use up the product as intended, but if you must dispose of an unused portion, flush down the drain with plenty of water. If you are on a septic tank or lagoon, dispose of small quantities over a number of days.
Alternatives: Vinegar, like ammonia, will cut through grease and grime but without the irritation produced by ammonia and ammonia vapors.