Allergic Reaction from Swiffer Sweeper

September 27, 2007, by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from Mary Kathryn

Last week, I experienced sever itching, painful, throbbing blisters all around my toes and heels. The dermatologist said it was from an initial contact dermatitis caused by a chemical reaction. I have no idea where I came in contact with a chemical. 

I love to use the Swiffer Sweep and often times, while cleaning, walk over the damp floor. I'm wondering if the contact with the wet Swiffer Sweeper floor caused my reaction. It felt like I was walking on tapioca pudding as the bubbles were irritating, itchy, painful and have now left a purplish skin behind. Hopefully, the skin color will return to pink. The druggist told me to use hot Epson salts and cortaid ointment. Just recently, I saw on the web to use cold oat meal paste ..... no wonder if hurt. 

What do you think? 

Debra's Answer

Yes, there are several chemicals in wet Swiffer sheets that are irritants.