Laundry capsules prompt warning for parents

Parents are being warned about a new product that may present a danger to children.

Laundry detergent capsules promise convenience as they allow users to pop the correct amount of detergent, stain remover and whitener into the washing machine without having to measure liquid or granule soap.

The capsules are sold under many brand names including Tide Pods, All Mighty Pacs and Purex Ultra Packs.

The problem is the capsules often have bright packaging that is attractive to young children and they dissolve quickly if held in a moist hand or ingested.

"They're very attractive, there's no reason a child wouldn't get into them," said  Dr. Margaret Thompson of Ontario’s Poison Control Centre.

Since February, Ontario’s poison control centre has received calls from as many as 30 parents whose children have chewed on the soap pellets.

The detergent can irritate the eyes and cause a burning sensation if ingested.

Parents who spoke to CBC News about the laundry capsules said their bright packaging makes them look like candy.

In response to the concern, some companies have altered their packaging to make the laundry capsules more child-proof.

Click on the video link above to watch Nil Koksal’s story.