Ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) in a bottle. This is a corrosive chemical with a strong ammonia smell. Ammonia is extremely soluble in water and is therefore an irritant to lungs, skin and eyes. When working with ammonium hydroxide it is advisable to use safety goggles and to work in a well ventilated lab. Ammonium hydroxide is used as a household cleaner and in the manufacture of wide variety of products, including textiles, rubber and fertilizer.