Health Tip: Childproof the Laundry Area

(HealthDay News) -- The laundry room can be a potentially dangerous place for young children, but taking precautions can help reduce the risk of accidents.

The American Academy of Pediatrics lists these laundry room safety guidelines:

• Store all laundry products in original packaging with labels intact.

• Always follow all instructions on laundry products and become familiar with the safety information.

• Never mix laundry detergent with household cleaners or ammonia, as those may produce harmful fumes.

• Store all laundry products (especially those in spray bottles) in a high, locked cabinet out of reach of children -- never on top of the washer or dryer.

• Properly dispose of laundry containers and do not reuse them; promptly and thoroughly clean up spills and wash hands after touching laundry products.

• Keep the laundry room door closed and locked to keep children out.