N

early half of U.S. consumers

say they have never read the directions on a package of laundry detergent, according to a survey from The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA).

 

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But new clothes can last longer and outlast stains if you use the right laundry techniques.

"First and foremost, proper detergent dosage leads to cleaner and longer-lasting clothing," said Nancy Bock, SDA vice president of education.

Battling those Dinner Stains

To tackle those fruit sauce and gravy stains, check out SDA's expert stain advice:

• With stains, act quickly to increase chances of removal. Pre-treat stains by rinsing or soaking in cold water, then apply a stain remover and launder. Check freshly washed wet clothes for stains that don't wash away. Instead of drying them, which can permanently set the stains, pre-treat the stains and wash them again.
• All-purpose laundry detergents are especially effective on food, and greasy and oily soils. Since they are liquids, they are good for pretreating spots and stains.
• Most liquid and powder detergents are now concentrated; so follow the label instructions and use the measuring cap or scoop to ensure the correct amount.

"Most importantly, read and follow laundry package directions," said Bock. "And you can have clothes that will outlast the stains."

For more laundry tips and techniques, visit SDA's website at www.cleaning101.com, and click on "Laundry."

 

About SDA

The Soap and Detergent Association (www.cleaning101.com), the U.S. Home of the Cleaning Products Industry^SM, is the non-profit trade association representing 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.