Contact: Brian Sansoni, The Soap and Detergent Association, 202-662-2517, Bsansoni@cleaning101.com

Get The Latest "Dirt" on Stain, Soil Removal

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 2, 2005 - Consumers looking for helpful advice on using soil and stain removal products now have a brand-new online resource to turn to, thanks to a free publication from The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA).

SDA's Laundry Product Fact Sheet on soil and stain removers can be found on its website at www.cleaning101.com/laundry.

The publication offers in-depth information on pre-wash and in-wash stain removers, commonly-used ingredients, and proper product usage, disposal and safety.

The SDA Fact Sheet also includes a special section devoted to frequently asked questions about stain removal.

"Stains are part of everyday life. The most effective way to remove stains is to treat and wash them promptly," advises Nancy Bock, SDA Vice President of Education. "The longer stains sit on a fabric, the more difficult they may be to remove."

A 2003 SDA National Cleaning Survey found nearly half of Americans never read laundry detergent directions. SDA advises consumers that reading product label directions can go a long way towards effectively removing stains on clothing and garments.

Directions for proper use of cleaning products can be found on the product label. The directions inform consumers how to use the product for optimum results. For example:

• How much product should be used
• What soils and stains it removes
• What fabrics it should and shouldn't be used on
• Appropriate water temperature and wash cycles

Consumers can find other useful information on laundry and fabric care, household cleaning, dishwashing, and personal hygiene products at www.cleaning101.com.

Links to SDA Member Companies: www.cleaning101.com/about/members.cfm

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The Soap and Detergent Association (www.cleaning101.com) is the Home of the U.S. Cleaning Products and Oleochemical Industries^SM, represents manufacturers of household, industrial, and institutional cleaning products; their ingredients; and finished packaging; and oleochemical producers. SDA members produce more than 90 percent of the cleaning products marketed in the U.S. The SDA is located at 1500 K Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005