Certain Pine Sol Cleaners Recalled Over Bacteria Concerns

Clorox is recalling certain Pine-Sol products as they may contain bacteria. Millions of products may be affected.

The company is voluntarily recalling the affected Pine-Sol products after the company "learned that some products may contain bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa."

Pseudomonas is a type of bacteria that can be commonly found in soil and water. While there are many different types of it, the one that most commonly causes infections is people in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted.

While people with immune systems that are considered "healthy" typically aren't affected by the bacteria, those who have weakened immune systems who get exposed to it may risk having a serious infection that may need medical treatment, according to the announcement on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) website.

In 2017, for instance, multi-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa caused about 32,600 infections among hospitalized people.

"The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, through the eyes, or through a break in the skin," the announcement noted.

In the case of the current recall, there have been no reported incidents or injuries related to the product. However, the bacteria has been identified in some of the recalled products, "including those produced between January 2021 and September 2022."

During this time, the company produced some 37 million of them.

The recall affects several Pine-Sol variants. These are Pine-Sol Scented Multi-Surface Cleaner in various sizes of Lavender Clean, Lemon Fresh and Sparkling Wave scents; ChloroxPro Pine-Sol All Purpose Cleaners in Lavender Clean, Lemon Fresh, Orange Energy and Sparkling Wave and the Clorox Professional Pine-Sol Lemon Fresh Cleaner.

"Importantly, Original Pine-Sol (Pine scent) is not included in this recall and you may continue to safely use it as intended," the company clarified.

The full list of the affected products, including the affected UPC and date codes to look for, is available on the company's recall website. Photos of the products, as well as where on the bottle customers may find the UPC and date codes, are also available on the company and CPSC websites.

"You are looking for a date code beginning with "A4" and the first five digits numbered 22249 or lower," the company noted.

The recalled products were sold at major retailers nationwide as well as online via retailer websites.

Those who find that they have an affected product are being advised not to use it even if it "appears to be safe." They may get a refund (purchase price or suggested retail price) by taking a photo of the UPC and date code of the item in their possession and contacting the company. Those with eligible products may complete the reimbursement form here.

Customers with questions about the recall may contact the company at (855) 378-4982.

"We are conducting this recall to safeguard your health and well-being," the company said.