We cannot overstate the importance of reading product labels. Far too many people ignore this vital information. U.S. regulations pertaining to the environment, consumer-product safety, and occupational safety require this information on all bottles or containers whose contents pose any kind of hazard.

 

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Label instructions always merit a careful reading. They’re geared toward safe use of the product, and they’ll let you know how to get the most out of your purchase and how to avoid damaging what you’re trying to clean. Not only that, many manufacturers include a toll-free telephone number that you can call in case you don’t understand something in the instructions. They would much rather take your call now than receive your lawsuit summons later.

The label will tell you whether you need any protective gear and/or clothing and, in the case of poisons, what to do just before or after calling the local Poison Control Center.