The Technical Regulations Division within the MCCAA brings to the attention of the public risks posed by laundry detergent capsules (or packets) which are present in growing numbers in households worldwide. These products might look attractive to children and can pose serious dangers if not handled and stored safely.
Laundry detergent liquid capsules/packets contain concentrated detergent for single use. The content, protected by a membrane, is released once it comes in contact with the moisture during washing.
Yet, laundry detergent liquid capsules/packets are small, tactile and often colourful, which attracts children, especially toddlers, who are tempted to put them in their mouth or play with them.
A laundry liquid capsule can burst in a child's hand, especially when it is wet or moist. It can also rapidly dissolve with moisture and may burst in a child’s mouth in as little as 10 seconds, which can cause severe adverse health effects.
One must store these products high up in a room where they are out of children’s reach and sight. If stored in lower cabinets or cupboards, these should be secured with child-resistant locks. Additionally, the capsules/packets must be kept in their original container, fully closed between uses.
The authority recommends that consumers carefully read the labels on the packaging before using the product. Moreover, adults must not use the capsules/packets while children are close to them and must not allow or invite children to play with them.
Laundry detergent capsules must never be pierced or left outside their container. These capsules or packets must be stored in a container with a secure lid which should be closed after every use.
In the case a child puts such capsules/packets in the mouth, one must rinse their face and mouth thoroughly. In such cases, parents and child carers should not induce vomiting and if a child has capsule liquid close to their eyes or on their hands, it should be rinsed off carefully with plenty of water. In such cases, one must call a doctor or go to the medical emergency department.
Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority
Office for Consumer Affairs
Mizzi House,
National Road,
Blata l-Bajda
HMR 9010
Freephone: 8007 4400
Tel: 2395 2000
Enquiries: info@mccaa.org.mt
Consumer complaints: fair.trading@mccaa.org.mt
Website: www.mccaa.org.mt
MCCAA office hours for the public:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8.30am to 12.30pm
Wednesday from 8.30am to 4pm
European Consumer Centre Malta
(For complaints against traders in other EU states)
47A, South Street,
Valletta.
VLT 1101
Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 3pm.
Tel: 2122 1901
E-mail: ecc.malta@gov.mt