08 Sep Pictograms on cleaning products
Index of contents:
- What are pictograms on cleaning products?
- Types and meanings of pictograms on cleaning products
- Importance and benefits of pictograms on cleaning products
What are pictograms on cleaning products?
Cleaning products are part of our daily lives, both at home and at work. However, many of them contain chemicals that can pose a risk to our health or the environment if not used correctly.
To prevent accidents and promote safe use, these products must include graphic symbols called hazard pictograms on their labels. These are part of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), regulated in Europe by the CLP Regulation (Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008), and allow the risks associated with the product to be identified visually.
Each pictogram consists of a black icon inside a red diamond on a white background. Thanks to these pictograms, anyone can easily recognize whether a product is flammable, toxic, corrosive, or hazardous to the environment, among other risks.
Types and meanings of pictograms on cleaning products
Below, we review the nine most common hazard pictograms that may appear on cleaning product labels, as well as other symbols related to sustainability and recycling.
Explosive
Indicates that the product may explode due to heat, impact, friction, or contact with other substances. Although not common in the home, it can be found on certain industrial aerosols.
Combustible
Indicates that the product promotes the combustion of other materials. For example, some disinfectants containing peroxides.
Flammable
Indicates that the product can burn easily. Common in cleaners containing alcohol, acetone, or paint solvents.
Pressurized gas
Aimed at products containing compressed or liquefied gases, with a risk of explosion or cryogenic burns if heated.
Corrosive
This pictogram warns of serious damage to skin, eyes, or metal surfaces. Commonly found on descaling products or oven cleaners.
Acute toxicity
Warns that the product may cause toxic, serious, or even fatal effects if inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with the skin.
Serious health hazard
Used for products that may cause chronic effects such as cancer, reproductive problems, or organ damage.
Irritating or harmful
Indicates a moderate risk: eye, skin, or respiratory irritation, drowsiness, or allergic reactions.
Hazardous to the environment
Warns that the product may seriously affect the environment, especially in aquatic environments.
Other pictograms
In addition to the mandatory pictograms, there are voluntary symbols that provide relevant information about the sustainability of the packaging or its proper management as waste:
Recycling symbol (Möbius loop)
Composed of three arrows forming a triangle, it indicates that the container can be recycled or has been manufactured from recycled materials.
Green Dot
Identifies that the manufacturing company finances the collection and treatment of the packaging through a Collective Extended Producer Responsibility System (‘SCRAP’ in Spanish). Since Royal Decree 1055/2022 came into force, its use is voluntary.
European Ecolabel (EEL)
It is awarded in accordance with criteria established by the European Union.
EU organic product symbol
Indicates that the product contains at least 95% certified organic ingredients and is accompanied by the code of the control body and origin of the raw materials.
Tidyman
Depicts a figure throwing waste into a trash can. It is a reminder to encourage proper disposal of packaging after use.
Ensures that the forest-based materials in the packaging (paper or cardboard) come from sustainably managed forests, meeting environmental, social, and economic requirements.
Importance and benefits of pictograms on cleaning products
Pictograms are an essential tool for ensuring the safe and responsible use of cleaning products. Thanks to them, both professionals and private users can:
● Identify risks before using the product
● Apply protective measures such as wearing gloves, masks, or ensuring good ventilation
● Prevent accidents such as burns, poisoning, or fires
● Protect the natural environment through proper use and disposal of products.
In this context, labeling must not only be clear, but also durable. Labels must withstand contact with corrosive products, humidity, or extreme temperatures without losing legibility or color. At Rieusset, we produce labels using suitable materials, inks and lacquers so that they are protected from attack by any of the products our customers package, keeping them intact for proper legibility of both text and pictograms.
Our commitment to consumer safety and the environment begins with the label design. That is why at Rieusset we get involved from the moment we receive the customer’s design to offer a product that meets the needs of all parties involved.