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FACTS ABOUT LAUNDRY Pages: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [Back to Fact Sheet Notebook Main Page] TYPES OF LAUNDRY PRODUCTS ... Continued General Information A listing of ingredients is included by some manufacturers on laundry product packages. In some instances, the generic names of the types of ingredients and their functions in the product are listed. Read and follow package directions carefully. In addition to ingredient listings, laundry product packages may contain other valuable information, such as: How to use the product How much to use What fabrics and/or surfaces to use it on Phosphorus content Net weight or volume Caution statement and emergency treatment information Storage information Manufacturer and address or toll-free number to obtain help with questions or problems relating to the product Do Not Mix Household Cleaning Products! Some household cleaning products, which are useful and safe when used alone, can be dangerous when they are combined. Never mix two or more substances such as bleaching solutions, ammonia, rust removers or other household cleaning products, unless specifically instructed to do so on the package. Some chemical mixtures may release irritating gases. Care of Laundry Products is needed to preserve the effectiveness and maintain the life of a product. Follow these steps: Open packages according to directions. Reclose packages after each use to preserve the product, prevent spillage and minimize moisture pickup in powder products. Store all products in a cool, dry place and out of the reach of small children. Keep products in their original packages. Do not reuse empty containers. Shelf Life of Laundry Products Generally, laundry products do not have a limited shelf life. Some powder products may pick up moisture from the atmosphere. While this could delay their dissolving performance, once in solution they still perform their functions. Determining the Amount of Detergent to Use The instructions on detergent packages recommend the amount of detergent to use for optimum cleaning results. These recommendations are based on an "average" wash load. However, conditions may vary from home to home or even between wash loads within the same home. The amount of detergent used may need to be adjusted based on some of the following variables: Kind of soil... Sand and dust may be easier to remove than heavy grease. Amount of soil... Heavily soiled items may need more detergent than lightly soiled items. Size of load... Smaller loads may require less detergent, larger loads may require more detergent. Water conditions... Hard water may require more detergent than soft water. Temperature of water, hot or cold, may also affect the amount of detergent needed. Water volume... Compact or small size washers use less water than larger size models, and top loading washers use more water than front loaders or new high-efficiency washers. The amount of detergent may vary with the design of the washer. Check the washer manufacturer's instructions for the recommended amount of detergent to use for each model. Individual standards and expectations must also be considered. Consumers must use judgment in adjusting the recommended product usage to their specific needs.