What are the cons of Pine-Sol?

Author: Zena Ruecker  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Dear Pine-Sol Community. People with weakened immune systems or external medical devices who are exposed to Pseudomonas aeruginosa face a risk of serious infection that may require medical treatment. The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, through the eyes, or through a break in the skin.

What are the side effects of Pine-Sol cleaner?

May cause irritation of respiratory tract. Causes serious eye irritation. May cause irritation. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Why was Pine-Sol taken off the market?

In 2022, certain Pine-Sol cleaners were recalled due to a potential health risk involving harmful bacteria.

What should you not use Pine-Sol on?

Pine-Sol® is not recommended for use on marble, aluminum, or unsealed, waxed, oiled or visibly worn wood. Q: Where should I NOT use Pine-Sol® Cleaners? A: We do not recommend using Pine-Sol® Original Multi-Surface Cleaner on aluminum, copper or marble surfaces.

Is it bad to breathe in Pine-Sol fumes?

Is the smell of Pine-Sol harmful? Yes, Pine-Sol contains strong chemicals like pine oil and ethanol, which can release harmful fumes. Inhalation of these fumes may lead to respiratory issues like asthma and allergies.

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Is Pine-Sol safe after it dries?

Is Pine-Sol Safe After It Dries? Yes, Pine-Sol is less harmful after it dries, but it's still a good idea to be cautious. Some residue can remain, especially on surfaces that your dog might lick or come into contact with.

What to do after inhaling cleaning products?

If you have inhaled chemical or toxic fumes, you should:
  1. get fresh air straight away — open doors and windows wide.
  2. loosen tight clothing.
  3. get urgent care if your condition worsens.

Do you need to rinse after mopping with Pine-Sol?

If you must use pine sol, I'd definitely follow with a clean water washing to remove residue especially for safety of animals and children.

What bugs does Pine-Sol repel?

If you have a problem with wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, or bees, Pine Sol can spare you from painful stings. Remember not to use it on honey bees – we need them to help pollinate our food plants – but for other hive insects, spray full strength Pine Sol as an insecticide.

Will Pine-Sol get rid of mold?

Pine-Sol can be effective against some mold, in some circumstances, but it is not universally effective against all mold. Why is Pine-Sol effective against some mold? Because it has an extremely acidic and extremely basic pH. pH is mainly what determines whether a cleaning chemical is considered “strong” or not.

Is Pine-Sol safe now?

Yes! Pine-Sol® is safe to use all around your home, from your playroom and dining room to your bathroom and kitchen. A list of surfaces that Pine-Sol® cleans and how to clean them are here.

What can I use instead of Pine-Sol?

In a large container, mix the white vinegar and water. This mixture will serve as the base of your natural Pine-Sol substitute. Gradually add 20-30 drops of pine essential oil to the vinegar and water mixture. The number of drops may vary depending on your preference for the strength of the pine scent.

Does Pine-Sol get rid of dust mites?

The Pine-Sol® of today is a multi-surface cleaner that deodorizes, cuts through grease, removes grime, tackles dirt and removes 99% of allergens (non-living dust mite matter and pet dander). The Original Pine scent also disinfects high-touch surfaces in your household.

Is Pine-Sol considered hazardous?

CAUTION: Causes moderate eye irritation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin or clothing. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling and before eating, drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco or using the toilet.

Why does Pine-Sol give me a headache?

It's not specifically a toxic reaction to the Pine-Sol but it can induce inflammation in the airways specifically from the organic hydrocarbons that are present in that cleaner.

Is Pine-Sol antifungal?

KILLS DANGEROUS DISEASE CAUSlNG GERMS: Influenza virus ~ (JAPAN 305157), staph, strep, typhoid, Infectious salmonella, other enteric bacteria on environmental surfaces. Also kills athlete's foot fungus In bathtubs, shower stalls.

Do spiders hate Pine Sol?

A: Many people use Lemon Pine-sol to eliminate spiders and other pesky bugs and insects. Most insects, spiders, and other bugs don't like the smell of citrus. Mops your floors with Lemon Pine-sol, and put some in a spray bottle and lightly spray the baseboard.

Will Pine Sol keep mosquitoes away?

As a household cleaner, Pine Sol is formulated to clean surfaces and leave a fresh scent, not to repel insects. Its ingredients do not include any compounds known to deter mosquitoes effectively.

Do mice like the smell of Pine Sol?

Pine Sol repels mice most effectively in enclosed spaces where the scent can linger, such as small rooms, closets, and cabinets. Applying Pine Sol in these areas can create an less attractive environment to mice.

Why is my floor sticky after I mop with Pine-Sol?

That's because the chemicals in your floor cleaner leave behind a residue. Not only does this residue make your floors sticky, it can also lead to a cloudy appearance and discoloration on wood floors. Fortunately, you can follow these steps to remove floor cleaner residue.

Is it better to mop floors with hot or cold water?

Hot water is great for removing grease, stubborn dirt and caked-on residue. It is more effective in killing bacteria and germs. Hot water is a good choice for tile floors and vinyl. Be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure your floor is resistant to hot water.

Will Pine-Sol clean grout?

Just a few more important points: As the grout can absorb the soap as well as a stain, do not clean with oil or wax based cleaners (Murphy's Oil soap, Pine Sol, etc.). These products will leave a waxy or oily film in the grout.

What to do if you swallow pool water and your stomach hurts?

If the chemical was swallowed, immediately give the person water or milk, unless instructed otherwise by a provider. Do not give water or milk if the patient is having symptoms (such as vomiting, convulsions, or a decreased level of alertness) that make it hard to swallow.

Why does my chest hurt after cleaning the bathroom?

A common house-cleaning mistake is combining ammonia with bleach. This combination results in an irritating fume called chloramine gas. Exposure to chloramine causes irritation to the eyes, nose, throat and airway. Symptoms include teary eyes, runny nose, sore throat, coughing and chest congestion.

How long do cleaning chemicals stay in the air?

Ventilation: This is the most critical factor. In a well-ventilated area, bleach fumes dissipate faster, sometimes within just a few hours. In contrast, the smell can linger for days in a closed-off room with no airflow.

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