A new study set to be published in the journal Pediatrics on April 2 is highlighting a persistent hazard in American homes. Researchers from the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital analyzed 16 years of data and found an estimated 240,800 emergency department visits involving children aged five and younger related to household cleaning products.

According to the data, that averages out to one injury every 35 minutes.

The Most Dangerous Products The study found that bleach and detergents were the most common products involved in these injuries. A significant portion of the danger comes from laundry detergent packets, which accounted for 33% of all injuries. Because these packets are often brightly colored and soft to the touch, young children can easily mistake them for candy or toys.

Children at Highest Risk The research shows that children between the ages of 1 and 2 years old are at the highest risk. At this age, children are highly mobile and naturally curious, often exploring their environment by putting new objects in their mouths.

Prevention and Safety Researchers are calling for a multi-layered approach to keep children safe, including more frequent public education and stricter requirements for child-resistant packaging.

Safety experts recommend several steps for parents and caregivers:

• Store all cleaning supplies "high and away," preferably in a locked cabinet.

• Keep products in their original packaging with the labels intact.

• Never leave cleaning products unattended while in use.

• Save the Poison Help Line number (1-800-222-1222) in your phone contacts.

The study emphasizes that while packaging has improved over the years, environmental modifications at home remain the most effective way to prevent accidental poisoning and chemical burns.