neutralising battery acid

[paddydog63]

After topping up my 3 batteries with distilled water I notice some of the cells have overlowed into the battery compartment due to gassing (perhaps i overfilled them) Could I pour some baking soda into the compartment to neutralise this acid or has the forum any other suggestions
Thank you

 

[sarabande]

baking soda excellent. Then flush out with ordinary water.

If there are any straps or fastenings, they might repay extra flushing, as even weak battery acid can seriously weaken fabric stitching.

 

[ccscott49]

lots and lots of fresh water. Remembering to remove the batteries, first as the battery compartment, is or should be sealed. Then you can suck, syphn all the water out, I use a wet and dry vacumn for this job.

 

[oldsaltoz]

Saraband is spot on, again.

 

[VicS]

Yes baking soda, meaning bicarbonate of soda, not baking powder. Be generous to ensure you have fully neutralised it. The bicarb will not do any harm.

 

[Anonymous]

Bicarb -- not baking soda which also has tartaric in it. Overnight, in an emergency, you can use ordinary soap -- i.e. a bar of soap -- and rinse well. Hand wash etc. is not as alkaline.