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Is Ammonia Safe? What You Need to Know

3/10

Safety Score

Concern Level: high

Ammonia has significant safety concerns. We recommend avoiding products containing this ingredient.

Common uses: glass cleaners, oven cleaners, hair dyes, floor cleaners

What Is Ammonia?

A pungent alkaline gas used in cleaning products and hair dyes. Exposure to concentrated fumes can cause serious respiratory damage.

Commonly found in: glass cleaners, oven cleaners, hair dyes, floor cleaners

Safety Research & Evidence

A pungent alkaline gas used in cleaning products and hair dyes. Exposure to concentrated fumes can cause serious respiratory damage.

Regulatory status: OSHA workplace exposure limit of 50 ppm; no cosmetic-specific regulation

Health Concerns

respiratory irritation

Evidence: Strong

Research indicates respiratory irritation may be associated with exposure to Ammonia. Particularly concerning for asthmatics, children, those with respiratory conditions.

chemical burns

Evidence: Strong

Research indicates chemical burns may be associated with exposure to Ammonia. Particularly concerning for asthmatics, children, those with respiratory conditions.

eye damage

Evidence: Strong

Research indicates eye damage may be associated with exposure to Ammonia. Particularly concerning for asthmatics, children, those with respiratory conditions.

Vulnerable Populations

Extra caution recommended for: asthmatics, children, those with respiratory conditions

Safer Alternatives

AlternativeSafety Score
Hydrogen Peroxide (dilute)7/10
Vinegar9/10

How to Avoid Ammonia

  1. Read ingredient labels carefully for "Ammonia" or its chemical synonyms
  2. Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
  3. Consider alternatives like Hydrogen Peroxide (dilute) or Vinegar
  4. Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
  5. Look for "Ammonia-free" labels on product packaging

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ammonia safe for babies?

No, we recommend avoiding Ammonia in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.

What are the safest alternatives to Ammonia?

Safer alternatives include Hydrogen Peroxide (dilute) (safety score: 7/10), Vinegar (safety score: 9/10).

Is Ammonia banned in other countries?

Regulatory status: OSHA workplace exposure limit of 50 ppm; no cosmetic-specific regulation

How do I know if my product contains Ammonia?

Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Ammonia may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.

Related Safety Guides

References

  1. Brautbar N et al. (2003). Ammonia exposure and respiratory health effects PMID: 16542843