Popular cleaning products recalled after consumers reported infections

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• A popular brand of laundry detergent and cleaning products issued a voluntary recall over bacterial contamination.
• Eleven consumers have reported Pseudomonas infections.
• The Laundress urges customers to stop using its products completely after potentially toxic bacteria were found in some of the items.

More than 8 million bottles of laundry detergent and cleaning products are being recalled after potentially dangerous bacteria were found in some of the items.

The recall involves The Laundress laundry detergent, fabric conditioner and other cleaning products, according to a notice posted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The company first issued a safety notice on Nov. 17, urging customers to immediately stop using any impacted product.

“We have identified the potential presence of elevated levels of bacteria in some of our products that present a safety concern,” The Laundress wrote on its website, adding that it would provide an update at a later date.

The recall comes after testing identified bacteria, including Burkholderia cepacia complex, Klebsiella aerogenes and multiple different species of Pseudomonas, inside certain recalled products. So far, the company is aware of 11 people who reported Pseudomonas infections. These reports are being investigated to see if there is any connection to the recalled products.

The Laundress says people with weakened immune systems, external medical devices, and underlying lung conditions who are exposed to the bacteria face a risk of serious infection that may require medical treatment. The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, or through the eyes, or through a break in the skin. People with healthy immune systems are usually not affected.

The company said the risk of bacteria being present on cleaned clothes is low but recommends rewashing the clothing, especially for those with weakened immune systems, external medical devices, or underlying lung conditions, according to the FAQ guide for the recall.

People can treat their washers by running them with an alternate laundry product or washing-machine sanitizer. A hot, dry cycle should clean the dryer.

Consumers with any concerns about dishes or surfaces on which they used the product should rewash them with an alternative product.

The Laundress advised consumers to visit www.TheLaundressRecall.com for a complete list of recalled products. Details on how to request a refund and dispose of impacted products are also available on the company’s recall page or contact The Laundress at 800-681-1915 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

Source: ABC News