Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500300
06/24/03
Detergents
Mild Detergents
Hand Dishwashing Liquid Detergent
Uses
Has surfactants that dissolve dirt and grease; use in
solution of warm-to-hot water to clean washable surfaces
such as counter-tops, appliances, fixtures, floors.
Cautions- Safe for washable surfaces and skin.
High-sudsing, so do not put much in the solution, and
rinse all suds off thoroughly.
Moderately Strong Detergents
Laundry Detergents
Uses
Has both surfactant and builder, so dissolves heavier
soil and grease; use in solution of warm-to-hot water to
clean washable surfaces where a stronger detergent is
safe. Use the smallest amount of detergent that will do
the job. Low-sudsing types are easier to rinse off.
Cautions- Most powdered detergents in Michigan
contain washing soda as a builder and some are very
alkaline which can damage surfaces, and irritated skin
with prolonged contact. Strong solutions can dissolve
paint. Always rinse thoroughly. Do NOT use where mild
detergent is recommended.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with references from MSU Extension
bulletin Money Saving Tips on Household Cleaners.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .