Whether your cleaning challenge is in the kitchen or garage, our cleaning experts are here to help you.  Below are some of the tips they’ve passed on to the readers of our newsletter.  Browse through them.  If you have a question that’s not answered here or elsewhere on the site, our experts would be happy to help.

Have a question of your own? Ask our experts!

Carrie from Chillicothe, Ohio contacted me recently about a tough problem she was having with one of her bathroom sinks.  “We have been without a bathroom sink for 2 months.  My husband has tried every snake, chemical and many other ways to get this drain unclogged.  This is just a simple email to say THANK YOU for CLR Power Plumber in a can …IT WORKS!!!  We thought we would have to tear down walls to get to the drain and the expense would have been extreme.  Once again thank you!!!  Best regards Carrie”

Carrie, I can’t even imagine being without one of our bathroom sinks for 2 months.  I’m glad Power Plumber could help.  Power Plumber works on a different principle than chemical drain openers.  CLR Power Plumber relies on compressed gas to clear drains.  When the formula in the can is released and comes in contact with water in your drain, it expands rapidly creating a standing wave.  Power Plumber uses the water in your pipes as a battering ram pushing the blockage through and clearing the walls of your pipes.

Each can of Power Plumber contains enough compressed gas for 15 applications.  Power Plumber can be used to unclog blocked sinks and tubs, slow-moving drains, double sinks, shower drains, floor drains and garbage disposals.  Clogs can be cleared up to 50 feet away without harming plastic or metal pipes.  Power Plumber will work on any clog including hair, grease, food particles or soap build-up.

Getting out a tough stain

In an email I received from Alan in Fort Worth, Texas, he told me about a stain he found in a bathtub in his new home.  “I wanted to post a comment about this product and its amazing results.  However after viewing your website I see that others have about summed it up.  I would like to share a situation that I had and you may post it, advertise it or do anything you desire with it.  I bought a newer model home almost three years ago.  There was a black/brown stain in my bathtub that appeared to be at one time a wet spot.  I thought it common dirt and set about its removal.  I scrubbed with a brush, used hand cleaner and scrubbed.  I used all of the following products… bleach, dish washing liquid, paint thinner, commode cleaner, shaving cream, dish washing crystals, a multi surface cleaner and a wide variety of products that compete with yours.

And with each application I scrubbed very hand in all directions.  I was about to use a very strong lacquer thinner, but thought about CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover. Guess what?  It took the stain out in about 2-3 minutes.  I am amazed!!!!  I also have NEVER written a company to tell them my experiences with their product.  THANK YOU CLR.  Alan, a customer for life.”

Alan, I am so pleased to hear your product testimonial.  CLR can be used to clean calcium, lime and rust deposits as well as scale off of a wide variety of surfaces including porcelain, chrome, glassware, fiberglass, stainless steel and grout.  You can clean your calcium encrusted outdoor faucets, your rusty siding, tools and the hard water stains left from the sprinkler system on your outdoor windows.  Do not use CLR on wood, clothing, wallpaper, carpeting, marble, terrazzo, natural stone, colored grout, painted or metallic glazed surfaces, plastic laminates, Formica or aluminum.  CLR is corrosive if left on too long.

To use CLR, while wearing rubber gloves, mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water.  Apply directly to the calcium, lime or rust stain with a brush, cloth or sponge and rinse promptly with cold, clean water.  If the stain does not disappear, use CLR full strength and then wipe and rinse promptly with cold, clean water.  Never leave CLR on any surface for more than two minutes.

Cleaning damaged treasurers

This is the time of year when we unpack our menorah, silver bells as well as formal serving pieces for the holidays and see the tarnish that has developed on our treasures.  I received a note from a blogger about an extreme case that I’ll share with you.  Kathryn from Nashville Tennessee sent us an email with a review she did on Tarn-X Silver Polish. “I thought you might be interested in this review I just wrote about one of your products: http://seekyt.com/whats-the-best-thing-about-tarn-x-silver-glaze-silver-polish-everything/”

When I received an email from Bonnie in Lincoln California about cleaning her silver water pitcher, I realized that the Holiday’s are upon us and it’s time to make sure that all of your treasurers are clean and ready for entertaining.  Bonnie was ecstatic about Tarn-X Tarnish Remover.  “Thank you!!!!!!!  I can't imagine why anyone even sells any other product for cleaning silver.  I spent 30 minutes on a quarter of my water pitcher with another cleaner before opening my new bottle of Tarn-X.  In 5 minutes, the whole thing was done, including removal of the tarnish the other cleaner left behind. I will never settle for anything less.”

This is the time of year when we unpack all of our treasures and decorate our homes.  Before you place that Menorah or your silver bells in their place of prominence, check to see if they are clean and shiny.  If you think they could be cleaner, pull out your Tarn-X.  Tarn-X will clean sterling silver, silver plate, platinum, copper, gold and even diamonds.  Simply wipe with Tarn-X or for smaller items dip the piece in the solution, rinse with cold water, dry with a soft cloth and the tarnish will disappear.  Prior to using Tarn-X, wash any dirt and grime off of the item with hot soapy water.  Rinse with cold water and wipe dry before using Tarn-X.  Remember to always use rubber gloves when working with Tarn-X.  Never leave Tarn-X on anything longer than two minutes.  Silver may discolor if Tarn-X is left on too long.  To remove the discoloration, wash the item in 1/2 warm water, 1/2 Tarn-X and two drops of dish soap, rinse with cold clean water and dry the item.  With Tarn-X, all your treasures will sparkle like new.

New “How To” videos

You know the old saying that “a picture is worth a thousand words.”  It’s always so much easier to understand directions if you can see how to do something.  On our web site, you can now see “how to” videos for 11 of the most commonly asked questions we receive on cleaning projects around the house.  Learn how to clean a coffee maker, dishwasher, humidifier filter and more in both English and Spanish.  Check out these videos for some of the finer points on how to clean some of the more difficult cleaning challenges around your house.

We get all kinds of questions on how to clean a grill now that it is time to put the grill away for the year.  Depending on if you are trying to clean rust, grease or spots and what type of surface you are cleaning, you’ll need different products.  Bryan from Salem, New Hampshire contacted us about his grill.  His question was, “I have a Weber stainless steel grill.  The instructions say to clean the outside of the stainless steel with just mild soap and water.  Well I did this, but didn't dry it because it was raining and now my stainless steel shelves are all spotted.  I have hard water at my house.  I can't seem to remove it. Do you know what is safe to use that will remove the spots/discoloration?”

For this particular situation, we suggest that you use CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner.  Stainless steel cleaner removes dirt, residue, water spots and fingerprints from refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, grills, small appliances and more.  Before beginning to clean your grill, while wearing household rubber gloves, test the spray on a small, hidden area of the surface.  To clean the grill, spray the entire surface and wipe the stainless steel following the grain using a clean, soft cloth.  When cleaning make sure that the grill is cool and do not use any other cleaners with CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner.  Once the grill is cleaned, the surface will have a streak-less, shiny protective barrier which repels dust, dirt, grime and even fingerprints.

Getting oil stains off the driveway

With winter quickly approaching, I am getting more and more questions about outside cleaning projects.  Annette from Alberta, Canada recently sent me an email about her driveway.  “Do you have a product to remove oil that leaked from a car on an asphalt driveway?”

Annette you need CLR Grease Magnet.  To get rid of the oil stain, sweep the area clean of heavy dirt as well as dust and then test a small, hidden area of the surface first before cleaning the entire stain.  When cleaning the spot, wear household rubber gloves and pour or brush full strength Grease Magnet onto an area no larger than 12" x 12".  Depending on size and difficulty of the stain, let the solution soak for one to five minutes.  Finally, clean the area with a brush or broom until the stain is loosened and rinse at once with cool, clean water.

Over the years I’ve been told by many people how much they like CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner, but, to my knowledge, it has never been called someone’s best friend.  That all changed when I received an email from Diane in Webster, Massachusetts.  She said, “I have never written to a company - ever - I had to let you know that your product has become my BFF- for four years I have looked at two bathtubs in my home that I had tried to clean with some type of cleaner that turned both tubs a rusty, streaky, mess--I have purchased every type of bathroom cleaner I could find-nothing worked--I had finally decided to contact Bath Fitters as there seemed to be no other way--couldn't stand looking at the rusty, ugly tubs anymore. When cleaning my shower head with the CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner that someone had given me, some dripped onto the tub—to my surprise a clean spot appeared--the rest is history--I sprayed, let it sit, scrubbed with a brush and now both tubs are like new---I will never be without CLR again and have told anyone who will listen about this wonderful product--Thanks CLR- you have saved me thousands of dollars.”

Diane, I am so pleased that you like our Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner and that it helped clean your bathtubs.  Keep in mind that CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner is about the only product you need to keep your kitchen and bathroom spotless.  Use CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner on your white grout and tile, counter tops and toilet.  You can also clean the soap off your tub, sink, chrome and brass fixtures as well as the sliding door to your shower.  As long as it is not treated with a synthetic coating, you can clean the soap build up off of your shower enclosure.  Do not use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on vinyl, marble, mirrors, plastic laminates, wood, fabrics, painted surfaces, colored grout or wall coverings.  CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner is safe on glass, plastic, fiberglass, ceramic tile and more!

Cleaning off rust stains

Tom from Chesapeake, Virginia contacted me recently about cleaning his boat.  “I'm getting ready to apply CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover to remove some in-ground sprinkler rust stains from my vinyl siding.  I’m wondering if this product will work on a fiberglass hull of a boat that also has rust stains from the same sprinkler system?”

Yes CLR will clean those stains, Tom.  In fact, another reader asked me a few months ago about cleaning calcium stains off of his black outboard motor.  CLR will also work great in that cleaning application.  To use CLR, mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water.  While wearing household rubber gloves, apply the solution directly to the calcium, lime or rust stain with a brush, cloth or sponge, allow the solution to work for no longer than two minutes and rinse promptly with cold, clean water.  If the stain does not disappear, use CLR full strength and then wipe and rinse promptly with cold, clean water.  CLR will also work on porcelain, chrome, glassware, stainless steel and grout.

Dianne from Moraga, California contacted me because she was concerned on what effect CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover would have on her flowers.  She asked, “I'd like to use this product on the rust stains on my front porch cement.  If I rinse it off with the hose, will it adversely affect the Camelia and Azalea next to the porch?”

No Dianne, CLR is safe on grass, shrubs, bushes, plants, flowerbeds and all types of flora.  Before you begin cleaning, water down your plants and grass with your hose and then repeat the process once you have finished cleaning your porch.

Jelmar has always been concerned about the environment.  In fact, Jelmar has partnered with the EPA’s DfE formula for safer chemistry to promote your health and that of the environment.  CLR contains no inorganic phosphates, hazardous solvents, or environmentally harmful surfactants.  Instead, we use a proprietary blend of ingredients, which exhibit more positive environmental and human health characteristics than conventional cleaning formulas.

Clean it up for Labor Day and it’s ready for winter

The last thing I want to do before my Labor Day picnic is clean the lawn furniture.  In order to stay motivated, I keep telling myself that it is the last time I will have to clean the furniture this year and, since we are putting it away after the picnic, it will be clean for next spring.

Cleaning lawn furniture does not have to be a tedious chore if you use CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner.  You can clean the majority of your furniture by spraying the surface, wiping it down and then rinsing with clean, cold water from your hose.  Remember to always wear household rubber gloves and to test CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner on a small, hidden area of the surface to be cleaned.  When you start cleaning your cushions, look for any stains.  You can clean stains by spraying the surface and then using a soft bristled brush to remove the stain.  After you rinse the cushion, see if the stain is gone and, if not, repeat the process.

CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner cleans the full range of outdoor furniture surfaces from cushions to framework – even strapping – without harming surrounding lawn, shrubs, flowers or pets.  CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner cuts through outdoor dirt, grime, bird droppings, grease and food spills.  You can clean all of your plastic, rattan, wicker, wood, wrought iron, vinyl, PVC and canvas furniture.  CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner is safe on white and colored resin including resin furniture and sporting or play equipment and contains UV protectants to keep outdoor furniture from fading and discoloration.

I recently received an email from Jason in London Ontario Canada asking about cleaning slate countertops.  He asked, “Can your CLR Stone Cleaner product work on slate effectively without harsh side effects to the surface or residue?”

CLR Stone Cleaner is exactly the product you need for your slate countertops.  This product is especially formulated to clean food and grime without scratching while protecting the surface.  In answer to your question, CLR Stone Cleaner restores the luster to stone surfaces without streaking and won’t leave a greasy coating or sticky residue.  Stone Cleaner is meant to keep your countertops protected so there will be a protective coating.  In addition to slate, you can use Stone Cleaner on granite, marble, Corian and tile surfaces.

Cleaning water spots from your windows

Carl from Florida contacted us with a typical question from Florida.  With the heat and sun in the Sunshine State, residents use their sprinkler systems regularly which can cause hard water spots to form on their windows.  His question was, “Can I use CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover on picture windows stained by my sprinkler system and if so how?”

Carl, for the hard water stains your sprinkler left on your windows, CLR is your answer.  While wearing household rubber gloves, simply apply CLR to the stains with a clean, soft cloth or sponge and wipe with clean, cold water using a damp sponge.  The hard water stains will come off without any effort at all.  While you are cleaning your windows use a little CLR on your screens.  Before you put your screens back on the windows, mix equal parts of CLR and warm water, use a sponge dampened with the CLR solution to clean your metal or fiberglass screens, rinse with cold water and wipe dry.

Daniel emailed me from New York recently to tell us about his experience with CLR Power Plumber.  “It is a rare thing indeed to find a product that truly works as advertised.  My sink drain had come to a total standstill.  After 45 minutes of plunging, all I had to show for my effort was a sink full of dirty water and a good sweat.  I went out to get a bottle of conventional drain opener, and came across your product - no corrosive chemicals, 15 uses, why not?  All it took was one application, and instantly my sink was draining.  I was so happy I gave my shower a dose just for good measure.  Thank you for this excellent product.”

Thanks for the kind words, Daniel.  CLR Power Plumber works differently than any of the leading drain openers.  Power Plumber relies on compressed gas to clear drains.  When the formula in the can is released and comes in contact with water in your drain, it expands rapidly creating a standing wave.  Power Plumber uses the water in your pipes as a battering ram pushing the blockage through and clearing the walls of your pipes.

Clearing up your glasses

A very common problem around the country is calcium build-up on glasses.  Patricia from Foristell, Missouri contacted me recently about that exact problem.  “My drinking glasses are covered with a white film...can I use CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover on them? If so, do I soak them in water with CLR, or clean each one independently with just CLR? I don’t want to throw them away. Hope you can help!! Thanks.”

Yes you can use CLR to clean your glasses, Patricia, as long as you have non-etched glassware.  Before you begin, always test a small area on a glass and wear rubber gloves.  To clean your glassware, pour 1/2 warm water and 1/2 CLR into a plastic container and dip a clean, soft cloth or sponge into the mixture.  Wipe the deposits off of your glassware and rinse immediately and thoroughly with cold, clean water.  If it seems that CLR helped a bit, but the glasses are not completely clean, repeat the process with full strength CLR.  Always avoid prolonged contact with CLR on any surface.  After a maximum of 2 minutes, rinse promptly and thoroughly with cold, clean water.

Bruce from Deale, Maryland was having issues with rust buildup on his vinyl fence. “I have rust stains on my vinyl fence from iron in the irrigation water. What is the best way to apply CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover without hurting my lawn? Thank you.”

Bruce, CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover is the perfect product to get those rust stains off your fence. To properly clean the fence, while wearing household rubber gloves, mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water. Test the solution on a hidden area before applying to the entire surface. Apply the solution directly to the rust stain with a brush, cloth or sponge and rinse promptly with cold, clean water. CLR needs to be thoroughly rinsed from the fence in under two minutes. Studies have shown that the top coating of the material will be affected if full strength CLR is left on the surface for five minutes or longer. To protect your lawn, thoroughly water the area where the CLR mixture will run down or touch before you clean your fence and then water down the same area after you have finished cleaning.

Getting your bathroom clean as a whistle

I recently received an email from Philip in Upper Kingsclear in New Brunswick, Canada with a question he had on cleaning his bathroom. “We have high calcium in our water supply. Our shower and sinks have brass as well as glass. Which product can I use safely?”

Philip we recommend that you use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner. You can safely use our cleaner on brass and chrome as long as the fixtures are in good shape. You can also clean the soap buildup off your white grout and tile, tub, sink and the sliding door to your shower. As long as it is not treated with a synthetic coating, CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner will make quick work of the dirt on your shower enclosure. The cleaner is safe on glass, plastic and ceramic tile. Always use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner in a well ventilated area while wearing household rubber gloves and test a hidden area of the surface before beginning to clean. Apply the cleaner with a damp sponge or cloth, allow the foam time to work and then rinse the surface with cold, clean water. Never leave the solution on a surface for more than two or three minutes.

Spring is finally here and it’s time to start getting ready for outdoor entertaining.  I can’t count the number of people that I know who leave their outdoor furniture out all winter and then don’t understand why it’s hard to clean.  To get last year’s food stains and winter’s grime off furniture, use CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner.  You’ll be able to clean the majority of the furniture by spraying the surface, wiping it down and then rinsing with clean, cold water from your hose.  When you start cleaning your cushions, though, you’ll probably find some of last summer’s food stains.  To clean those stains, start by spraying the surface and then using a soft bristled brush to remove the stain.  After you rinse the cushion, you may still see a bit of the stain so repeat the process.

CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner cleans the full range of outdoor furniture surfaces from cushions to framework – even strapping – without harming surrounding lawn, shrubs, flowers or pets.  CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner cuts through outdoor dirt, grime, bird droppings, grease and food spills.  You can clean all of your plastic, rattan, wicker, wood, wrought iron, vinyl, PVC and canvas furniture.  CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner is safe on white and colored resin including resin furniture and sporting or play equipment and contains UV protectants to keep outdoor furniture from fading and discoloration.

Owners of homes with septic systems have to be very conscious of what goes down their drains. Kyer from Colorado contacted me because he had a slow moving drain and was wondering if he could safely use CLR Power Plumber since he is on a septic system.

Kyer, Power Plumber is one product you don’t have to be concerned about using on a septic system. CLR Power Plumber will clear clogged or sluggish drains without the use of chemicals, acids or lye so it’s safe for your pipes and your septic system.

CLR Power Plumber relies on compressed gas to clear drains. When the formula in the can is released and comes in contact with water in your drain, it expands rapidly creating a standing wave. Power Plumber uses the water in your pipes as a battering ram pushing the blockage through and clearing the walls of your pipes.

Power Plumber can be used to unclog blocked sinks and tubs, slow-moving drains, double sinks, toilets, shower drains, floor drains and garbage disposals. Clogs can be cleared up to 50 feet away without harming plastic or metal pipes. Power Plumber will work on any clog including hair, grease, food particles or soap build-up.

Getting your humidifier ready for spring

I received an email from a retired engineer named Robert who lives in Toronto, Ontario Canada asking me how to clean calcium deposits off of his humidifier pads. Since it is nearly spring and time to turn off your humidifier, I thought that this would be a good time to share his question and answer with our newsletter subscribers.

Robert, the best way to clean your humidifier pads is with CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover. To use CLR, dilute equal parts of CLR and warm water in a plastic container. While wearing household rubber gloves, dip the filters (use only on metal filters, not on cellulose type filters) individually into the solution for about two minutes. Never leave CLR on any surface for longer than two minutes. Brush the filters with a wire brush to loosen the buildup and then rinse with cold, clean water. You can also use the diluted CLR on the humidifier itself. Apply the diluted CLR to any calcium deposits in the humidifier with a sponge, allow the mixture to work for up to two minutes and then rinse with cold, clean water. CLR is not recommended for circulation throughout the humidifier. Allow everything to dry before you reassemble the unit. Now you’re humidifier is ready for next winter.

Does your high efficiency washer have a bad smell coming from inside of the washer?  CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover can get the smell out!  Since it’s a front loading machine, the water gets trapped and doesn't drain completely every time a load of laundry is done causing odor to build up.  Using CLR can help your washer smell clean and your laundry fresh.
 
To clean your washer, simply add a ½ cup of CLR to the main cycle (or once the machine is at least halfway filled with water).  Be sure to pour in an additional 3 cups of water after you have poured in CLR.  After the full cycle has completed, run an additional full cycle with just water.  Once that cycle has finished, wipe down the door, the sealed part of the door and make sure to always keep your door slightly ajar.  Depending on how hard your water is, clean your washer monthly or every other month.  Not only will your washer smell fresh, but the efficiency of your machine should improve.

Keeping the shine on your refrigerator door

Teresa from Hollywood, Florida emailed me about her refrigerator.  She asked, “My refrigerator door is stainless steel.  I want to know if I can use CLR Metal Clear.”

No Teresa, Metal Clear is designed for tough cleaning applications.  For everyday cleaning, use CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner.  CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner removes dirt, residue, water spots and fingerprints from refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, grills, small appliances and more.  Once the item is cleaned, the surface will have a streak-less, shiny protective barrier which repels dust, dirt, grime and even fingerprints.

Metal Clear is a mild-abrasive formula, versatile multipurpose cleanser which cleans and shines without scratching.  This product is excellent for cleaning hard water stains and other cleaning problems on a variety of surfaces in your kitchen.  You can polish and shine stainless steel sinks and porcelain fixtures.  You can use it on your granite, Corian, enamel and laminated countertops.  Do not use CLR Metal Clear on marble, lacquered metals or painted surfaces and before beginning, always test Metal Clear on a hidden area of the surface you are cleaning.

Shawndra from Fayetteville, North Carolina emailed me recently with a question on cleaning her granite countertops.  “Will CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner harm granite countertops?”

Bathroom and Kitchen Cleaner is not meant for use on any type of stone surface, Shawndra.  Use CLR Stone Cleaner for granite, marble, Corian and tile surfaces.  Stone Cleaner is formulated to clean without scratching and provide protection against spills, food and grime.  After use, your countertop will resist fingerprints as well as smudges.  CLR Stone Cleaner restores the luster to stone surfaces without streaking and won’t leave a greasy coating or sticky residue.

Keeping you drains running smoothly

I received an email from Roch in Los Angeles, California asking me about CLR Septic System Treatment.  She asked, “Can this product be used on any drain such as a bath sink, shower, toilet and garbage disposal which are not on a septic system?”

Of course, Roch, and in fact we recommend using CLR Septic System Treatment (SST) in homes without septic systems on a weekly basis.  CLR SST can help keep your drains running smoothly even if you don’t have a septic system.  CLR SST works on fats, oils, grease and other stubborn organic matter.  CLR SST is also effective with garbage disposals.  In disposals, with monthly use, CLR SST will treat the odor most disposals have, the drain line as well as the septic.

If you do have a septic, used monthly, CLR SST will keep your septic system flowing freely.  Unlike dry septic system treatments which need to be flushed down toilets, CLR SST can be poured down any drain and is safe on pipes and porcelain.  CLR SST works instantly and can be used any time of the day.

During the summer, casual parties are all the rage.  Paper plates, plastic silverware on paper tablecloths replace my good flatware, serving pieces and linen tablecloths.  That’s why I look forward to the end of the year when entertaining moves indoors for the holidays.  I love a formal table setting with my good china, silverware and my beautiful silver serving pieces.

Before the entertaining begins, I always try to leave a little time to clean up my treasures after the year they spent is storage.  Before you place that Menorah or your silver bells in their place of prominence, check to see if they are clean and shiny.  If you think they could be cleaner, pull out your Tarn-X Tarnish Remover.  Tarn-X will clean sterling silver, silver plate, platinum, copper, gold and even diamonds.  Simply wipe with Tarn-X, rinse and the tarnish will disappear.  For smaller items, dip the item in Tarn-X, rinse and wipe.

Prior to using Tarn-X, wash any dirt and grime off of the piece with hot soapy water.  Rinse with cold water and wipe dry before using Tarn-X.  Remember to always use rubber gloves when working with Tarn-X.  After using Tarn-X, rinse immediately with cold water and hand dry with a soft cloth.  Never leave Tarn-X on anything longer than two minutes.  Silver may discolor if Tarn-X is left on too long.  To remove the discoloration, wash the item in 1/2 warm water, 1/2 Tarn-X and two drops of dish soap, rinse with cold clean water and dry the item.  With Tarn-X, all your treasures will sparkle like new.

Shake, soak, rinse & dry… The easy way to clean your jewelry

This is the best time of year for parties and to dress up!  With the holidays and New Years upon us and all the parties that go along with this time of year, there will always be a suitable occasion to show off your best jewelry.  Before I dress for the evening, I want to make sure that all my jewelry shimmers so I clean everything with Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner.

Cleaning your jewelry is as easy as shake, soak, rinse and dry.  Place your smaller pieces of jewelry into the container’s dip basket or place rings on our ring post and immerse them in the solution.  For larger jewelry items such as medallions, pins and bracelets, remove the basket from the container and place the jewelry directly in the container.  Close the lid tightly and gently agitate the container with a circular motion for about 30 seconds.  After allowing the jewelry to soak another 60 seconds, remove the piece and use the kit’s brush to clean the back of stones and intricate patterns.  Do not soak jewelry for longer than two minutes.  After you remove your jewelry from the solution, rinse the item in cold water and wipe dry.  You can repeat the cleaning process if you feel it is necessary.

Do not use Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner on antiqued jewelry, enameled jewelry, pearls, opals or other porous stones.  Before cleaning any of your jewelry, I suggest testing a small area with a cotton swab which was dipped into the solution and rinsing immediately.  If it seems to help, follow the directions for cleaning the whole item.

Helen from Edina, Minnesota had a very specific question on how to use CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover.  Helen asked, “How do you use CLR to clean a Honeywell electronic humidifier?”

Helen, you can only use CLR on the metal filters and in the plastic container.  CLR is not recommended for circulation throughout the unit.  To use CLR, dilute equal parts of CLR and warm water in a plastic container.  While wearing household rubber gloves, dip the filters individually into the solution for about two minutes.  Brush the filters with a wire brush to loosen the buildup and then rinse with cold, clean water.  You can also use the diluted CLR on the plastic container in the unit.  Pour the diluted CLR into the plastic container, agitate for two minutes and rinse with cold, clean water.  Never leave CLR on any surface for longer than two minutes.  Allow everything to dry before you reassemble the unit.  Now you are ready for winter!

Getting your shower doors to sparkle

We just received a ringing endorsement from Linda in Boynton Beach, Florida. She said, “I thought I had tried everything on the market to clean my glass shower doors from the soap and hard water that left it so unattractive.  Then I found CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner in Target this week.  I was amazed at how clean my glass doors were after a lot less effort.  The results were amazing and my home will not be without this product ever again.”

Linda, we’re thrilled that CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner worked on your shower doors.  You can use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on a wide variety of surfaces in addition to just your shower doors.  CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner is just about the only product you need to clean your entire bathroom.  You can use it on your white grout and tile, sink, counter tops, toilet and, as long as it is not treated with a synthetic coating, you can clean off the soap residue from your shower enclosure.  You should always use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner in a well ventilated area while wearing household rubber gloves, test a hidden area of the surface before beginning to clean and you should never leave the solution on a surface for more than two or three minutes.

I received a, what on the surface, would seem to be an unusual question from Marion in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada. She asked, “I would like to know if I can use CLR Septic System Treatment on a regular household drain without a septic system.”

Of course, Marion, and in fact we recommend using CLR Septic System Treatment (SST) in homes without septic systems on a weekly basis. CLR SST can help keep your drains running smoothly even if you don’t have a septic system. CLR SST works on fats, oils, grease and other stubborn organic matter. CLR SST is also effective with garbage disposals. In disposals, with monthly use, CLR SST will treat the odor most disposals have, the drain line as well as the septic.

If you do have a septic, used monthly, CLR SST will keep your septic system flowing freely. Unlike dry septic system treatments which need to be flushed down toilets, CLR SST can be poured down any drain and is safe on pipes and porcelain. CLR SST works instantly and can be used any time of the day.

Sue from Bisbee, AZ contacted me recently with a very specific question regarding CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover. She asked, “I live in a hard water area and have an American Standard Lifetime acrylic whirlpool tub. I am gradually getting hard water spots and buildup on the tub. American Standard tells me that I can use CLR on these areas and that it is safe on acrylics, but I would like your assurances too. Can I use CLR safely on my acrylic tub? At what concentration? Any more info that you can give me on CLR’s use on or in my acrylic whirlpool tub will be appreciated. Thanks.”

American Standard is right, Sue. You can use CLR on your acrylic whirlpool tub, but only on the outside. Do not circulate CLR within the whirlpool. To clean the outside of the tub, while wearing household rubber gloves, mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water. Apply the solution directly to the hard water spots and buildup with a brush, cloth or sponge and rinse promptly with cold, clean water. If the stain does not disappear, repeat the process using full strength CLR. Never leave CLR on any surface for more than two minutes.

Roddy from Sheridan, Michigan wrote to us after a long search for a product to clean his aluminum siding. He wrote, “Just to let you know, I have been looking for over a year for a product that would remove rust stains from aluminum siding. One of our below ground sprinklers would spray the corner of our house and over time was turning the white aluminum siding a yellowish color. We tried various products and nothing would remove the rust stain from the aluminum siding. Last week I tried CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover and it completely removed the stain. I just mixed it with a little water, applied it to the affected area, waited two minutes and rinsed off with water. The stains came right out. I could not find any manufacture that listed rust stain removal from aluminum siding as an use for their product. You should add this as an additional use for your product as I am sure there are others out there that have had the same problem.”

Roddy, I’m glad CLR worked so well for you. CLR can also be used on vinyl siding. You can use CLR on aluminum or vinyl siding as long as it is diluted and is thoroughly rinsed off of the surface in under two minutes. Studies have shown that the top coating of the siding will be affected if full strength CLR is left on the surface for five minutes or longer.

Don’t tell the plumber

Vytautas from Highland Heights, Ohio was positively gushing, pun intended, in the email I recently received. “Shhh!!! - don't tell your plumber about this fantastic product! With this on the market Mr. Plumber will just have to keep company with another lonely guy the - Maytag repair man. I tried all I could think of to open my bathroom sink drain to no avail. Your CLR Power Plumber is like a nuclear roto-rooter. This stuff works better than advertised. Thanks a million!!”

Thanks for the high praise, Vytautas. CLR Power Plumber works on a different premise than any of the leading drain openers. Power Plumber relies on compressed gas to clear drains. When the formula in the can is released and comes in contact with water in your drain, it expands rapidly creating a standing wave. Power Plumber uses the water in your pipes as a battering ram pushing the blockage through and clearing the walls of your pipes.

Power Plumber can be used to unclog blocked sinks and tubs, slow-moving drains, double sinks, toilets, shower drains, floor drains and garbage disposals. Clogs can be cleared up to 50 feet away without harming plastic or metal pipes. Power Plumber will work on any clog including hair, grease, food particles or soap build-up.

I heard from Carla in Waycross, Georgia about a problem she was having in her new home.  “I found this product (CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner) in 2004 when we bought our home and had to clean our bathrooms that were insanely filthy.  The sink, toilet and tub are beige in color, so when we looked at the house we did not notice how bad the soap residue was in the tub/shower.  But as soon as we began moving in and touched it, we would not even shower at our NEW house until we could find something to clean it.  I tried EVERYTHING - all the way to scraping with a razor and Easy-OFF Oven Cleaner; it did NOT touch the soap deposits.  I sprayed CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner all over it and began scrubbing... 6 scrub sponges later it was sparkling clean and I was hooked.”

Carla, we’re happy that CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner worked so well for you.  You can use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on a wide variety of surfaces in addition to your tub.  You can use it on your white grout and tile, counter tops and toilet.  You can also clean the soap deposits off your sink, chrome and brass fixtures as well as the sliding door to your shower.  As long as it is not treated with a synthetic coating, you can make quick work of soap residue on your shower enclosure.  Do not use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on vinyl, marble, mirrors, plastic laminates, wood, fabrics, painted surfaces, colored grout or wall coverings.  CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner is safe on glass, plastic, fiberglass, ceramic tile and more!

Carla, you should always use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner in a well ventilated area while wearing household rubber gloves and test a hidden area of the surface before beginning to clean.  When cleaning, apply the solution to a clean damp cloth, sponge or directly to the surface to be cleaned, allow the foam time to work and then rinse with clean cold water.  You should never leave the solution on a surface for more than two or three minutes.  CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner is the tough cleaner that will help you get your bathroom clean down to the shine.

An “amazing” way to clean your countertops

We just received an email on one of our newest products, CLR Stone Cleaner, from Cindy in Scottsdale, Arizona.  “The way this product wipes up the dirt is amazing!  After the amount I paid for my countertops, I want a product that Really works!  And this one does...I will tell all my friends.”

Thanks for the high praise, Cindy.  CLR Stone Cleaner is formulated to clean without scratching and provide protection against spills, food and grime on a wide variety of surfaces including granite, marble, Corian and tile.  The cleaner resists fingerprints as well as smudges without streaking.  CLR Stone Cleaner restores the luster to the surface and won’t leave a greasy coating or sticky residue.

My buddy Garrett always waits until the last minute for everything.  It’s almost summer and now he is finally asking me how to get his grill really clean.  I told him that he could get his grill looking like new with CLR Grease Magnet.  Before beginning to clean, I told him to examine his grill for heavy deposits of grease and to scrape off as much as possible.  To remove the grease on his grill rack, I told him, while wearing rubber gloves, to soak the grate in Grease Magnet and allow the solution to sit on the racks for about five minutes or until he sees the grease running off of the grate.  Then he was to scrub the rack with a stiff bristled brush and rinse the grate with clean water from his hose.   To clean the grease from his drip pan, he needed to spray the pan liberally with Grease Magnet and use a stiff bristled brush to scrub the pan.  If there was still residue, he needed to repeat the process and, once he was done, rinse the pan with clean water from the hose.  Finally, to clean the outside of his grill, he sprayed the grill with Grease Magnet, wiped it down with a sponge and rinsed the grill with his hose.  Before and after cleaning, to keep his grass and shrubs safe, he watered everything within the cleaning area with cold water from his hose.

Adding a shine to stainless steel

I heard from Kerry in Spokane Washington recently about one of our newest products.  “My mother heard from someone to use baby oil to clean the surface of her stainless steel refrigerator and dishwasher, which she did.  When I saw the results yesterday I was convinced she had ruined the surface of both appliances.  There was dark streak marks all over the surfaces plus they were sticky to the touch.  I tried cleaning with a wet rag, but the streaks came back and did nothing for the stickiness from the baby oil.  I went over to my parent’s home today at lunch with CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner.  I swear once I used the Cleaner on both appliances they looked brand new.  Dark streaks and stickiness just vanished.  My parents couldn’t believe it.  This stuff really does work.”

Thanks Kerry.  We have been getting nothing but rave reviews on CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner since we introduced the product earlier this year.  CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner removes dirt, residue, water spots and fingerprints from refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, grills, small appliances and more.  Once the item is cleaned, our cleaner will leave a streak-less, shiny protective barrier which repels dust, dirt, grime and even fingerprints.  Since CLR Stainless Steel Cleaner is so new, we have limited distribution.  You can order it online at ShopCLR.

Mike from Lufkin, Texas came up with the most unusual use for CLR I have ever seen. “I am not sure if it was your product (CLR) or the Scotch Brite pad I used, but one of the two, or the combination of the two worked great at making my turn signals and park lights work again in a 1977 Ford truck. The truck was parked in 1979 and sat in the weather all those years. I got the truck for no charge, and after minor tinkering was driving it, but the park lights and signals would not work. Contact cleaner would not clean the plugs, but CLR and a Scotch Brite pad have me rolling perfectly legal now. Just had to share that with you, and allow you to test it if you'd like, so you can share it with any car nuts you may run across.”

Thanks for sharing your idea, Mike. CLR is a great rust cleaner and much more. CLR is an effective way to clean away calcium and lime deposits as well as scale from porcelain, chrome, glassware, fiberglass, stainless steel and grout. You can use CLR inside and outside of your home. You can clean your calcium encrusted outdoor faucets, your rusty siding, tools and the hard water stains left from the sprinkler system on your outdoor windows. Do not use CLR on wood, clothing, wallpaper, carpeting, marble, terrazzo, natural stone, colored grout, painted or metallic glazed surfaces, plastic laminates, Formica or aluminum.

The easy way to clean off years of tarnish

I don’t know about you, but when the weather is nice I like to go antiquing. Not to the fancy, expensive stores, but to the out of the way shops where you can find some absolutely beautiful pieces in a dusty corner of the store. I recently went to one of these stores and found a gorgeous sterling silver tray that was covered with tarnish. I grabbed the tray because I knew a little Tarn-X would make the platter look like new. To use Tarn-X, while wearing rubber gloves, simply wipe the piece with the solution, rinse, wipe and years of tarnish will disappear. For smaller items, just dip the item in Tarn-X, rinse and wipe. Tarn-X will clean sterling silver, silver plate, platinum, copper, gold and even diamonds.

Prior to using Tarn-X, use a hot soap and water wash to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse with cold water and wipe dry. After using Tarn-X, rinse immediately with cold water and hand dry with a soft cloth. Never leave Tarn-X on anything longer than two minutes. Silver may discolor if Tarn-X is left on too long or if it dries on the item. If the piece does discolor, to remove the discoloration, wash the item in 1/2 warm water, 1/2 Tarn-X and two drops of dish soap, rinse with cold, clean water and dry the item.

I received an email from George in Hainesport, New Jersey with an idea for all you mariners out there.  “I had been trying to clean white water stains from my black outboard motor for years.  The lake I fish in Canada is on limestone.  I tried everything like cleaner waxes, automotive cleaners, Etc.  It only took a paper towel with CLR and 5 minutes to clean it off.  I'm sold on CLR!  Thank You!”

George, as a fellow fisherman I’m glad CLR was able to help with your problem.  CLR is a fast and effective way to clean away calcium and lime deposits as well as scale from porcelain, chrome, glassware, fiberglass, stainless steel and grout.  To use CLR, while wearing household rubber gloves, mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water.  Apply the solution directly to the calcium, lime or rust stain with a brush, cloth or sponge and rinse promptly with cold, clean water.  If the stain does not disappear, repeat the process using full strength CLR.  Never leave CLR on any surface for more than two minutes.

I heard from Theresa in Southgate, Kentucky with a problem that occurs often especially in areas that have hard water.  “Our washer is leaving rust stains on our clothes.  Thought I'd give your product a try before flipping the bill for a new washer.  Problem is, I have no idea where the rust stains are coming from!  I have tried to surface clean it with general cleaning products with no results.  How do you suggest I clean with the CLR?  I was going to run a phantom load but would like some suggestions on how much of the CLR to use if you have any suggestions.  Please email me back.  Would love to have clean clothes without rust marks.”

Theresa, to get rid of the rust on your clothes you need to completely eliminate the rust from inside your machine by running your washer with CLR and no clothes.  With a top loading machine simply add a ½ cup of CLR once the machine starts and be sure to pour an additional three cups of water in after you have poured in CLR.  In front loading washing machines, the door locks once the wash begins.  As a way around this issue, wait until your washer is half full and then add a ½ cup of CLR to the machine where you normally would add your detergent and softener.  With both types of washers, once the machine has finished, run the machine again with just water to clean out any remaining CLR.

New to a septic system

Last month I heard from Laura in Grants Pass, Oregon.  She had just bought her new home which uses a septic system.  “Just bought a house with a septic system - have never had one before.  Want to make sure the cleaners are safe to put down the drains.”

CLR and CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner are both safe for you and your septic system, Laura.  Jelmar worked with the EPA’s DfE formula for safer chemistry to develop these products to be effective as well as safe.  Neither product contains phosphates, ammonia or bleach.  Since you have never owned a home on a septic system before, let me give you a little advise.  Your septic system is too valuable to your home for you to take for granted.  On a monthly basis, use CLR Septic System Treatment.  Using the measuring window on the bottle, pour a 1/3 of a bottle of the solution down any of your drains or into your toilet.  CLR Septic System Treatment is safe on pipes as well as porcelain and uses more environmentally friendly ingredients than other brands.  When added to your septic system, CLR Septic System Treatment turns the sludge and solids that fall to the bottom of your septic tank into liquids so that they can flow into your drain field.

Dishwashers can last for years, but, depending on your water, they can over time stop running efficiently because of calcium and rust buildup.  The email I received from Amy in Glendale, Arizona is typical to many I receive.  “I just wanted to compliment CLR, it's the only thing keeping our dishwasher running right!  Thank you very much.”

If you have hard water in your home, use CLR on a regular basis to keep your dishwasher running at peak efficiency.  To clean out the calcium, lime and rust build-up, run the machine without soap and add a ½ cup of CLR once the machine is at least halfway filled with water. After the machine has finished, run the machine again with just water to clean out any remaining CLR.

Spring cleaning during the winter

You might as well make the most of these next six weeks of winter and get a few more projects done inside before the weather gets better.  The two rooms that can probably use the most attention are the kitchen and your bathroom.  To get these rooms immaculately clean, you need CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner.  With CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner, you can be confident that your bathroom and kitchen are really clean and that you’re helping the environment by using a green product that does not contain any phosphates, ammonia or bleach.

Use CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner on your white grout and tile, counter tops and toilet.  You can also clean the soap off your tub, sink, chrome and brass fixtures as well as the sliding door to your shower.  As long as it is not treated with a synthetic coating, you can make quick work of soap on your shower enclosure.  Do not use CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner on vinyl, marble, mirrors, plastic laminates, wood, fabrics, painted surfaces, colored grout or wall coverings.  CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner is safe on glass, plastic, fiberglass, ceramic tile and more!

Always use CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner in a well ventilated area while wearing household rubber gloves and test a hidden area of the surface before beginning to clean.  When cleaning, apply the solution to a clean, damp cloth, sponge or directly to the surface to be cleaned, allow the foam time to work and then rinse with clean, cold water.  Never leave the solution on a surface for more than two or three minutes.  CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner is the tough cleaner that will help you get your bathroom and kitchen clean down to the shine.