Common hazardous ingredients
Borax, butyl cellusolve (ethylene glycol, monobutyl ether), napthalenepetroleum distillates, trichloroethane, various surfactants.
Potential hazards
Toxic; may be flammable; irritant to skin, eyes and mucous membranes. Air pollutant.
Use
Use in a well-ventilated area according to label instructions and avoid breathing vapors. Wear heavy rubber or nitrile gloves.
Avoid aerosol dispensers to reduce exposure to hazardous vapors.
Storage
Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Store in a locked cabinet or out of reach of children and pets.
Disposal
Best: Use up or give away. Rinse and recycle containers and recycle empty aerosol containers with steel cans.
Second best: Take to a hazardous waste facility or collection event.
Alternatives
Frequently vacuum with a vacuum that has beater brushes to agitate the fabric. Use a soap-based, nonaerosol rug shampoo. Vacuum when dry.
For spills
- Quickly blot up (don't rub) as much as possible. Cotton towels and rags are more absorbent than synthetic fabrics.
- Club soda or clear water are effective on some types of stains, particularly from alcoholic beverages, coffee or tomato-based food.
- Grease stains may require a solvent. Try a citrus-based product.
To neutralize odors: Sprinkle baking soda liberally over affected area, let sit overnight, then vacuum.
Find recipes to make your own stain removers at home.