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Frequently Asked Questions CLR®:
Can I put CLR in a spray bottle?
No. CLR is acidic in nature, and putting it in a spray bottle could "spray back" on your clothes or in your eyes, or the spray could drift.
How do I use CLR to clean a showerhead?
Remove the showerhead and submerge it in CLR. Leave in CLR for two minutes, remove, and then rinse to loosen up the buildup inside the showerhead. Repeat at full strength if necessary, rinsing thoroughly after each application.
How do I clean hard water deposits from my drinking glasses?
Pour 1/2 warm water and 1/2 CLR into a plastic bowl and dip a clean, soft cloth or sponge into it. Apply to deposits and rub. Rinse thoroughly with cold, clean water. If it seems that CLR helped a bit but the glasses are not completely clear, repeat at full strength if necessary.
I used CLR to clean my glasses and it did not remove the deposits. Do you know why?
If it seems that the CLR did not help at all, the glasses may be etched and there is no remedy to remove the cloudiness. The cloudiness is actually tiny cuts made in the glass by deposits in the water. The only thing that may remove the etching is a jeweler’s polishing.
Can CLR be used in a steam iron?
It is not recommended that CLR be used in steam irons. It could have an effect on fabrics or interior of the iron.
Can I use CLR on my car to remove rust?
No, it is not recommended to use CLR on a car. It may drip onto aluminum or a painted surface.
Can I use CLR to clean out my radiator?
No, CLR should not be used on a car radiator for two reasons. First, CLR may not be compatible with the internal metals of the radiator. Second, it could have adverse effects if the CLR is not rinsed out completely.
Is CLR safe for the icemaker on my refrigerator?
No. There is no way to know if CLR is completely rinsed out.
Will CLR remove oil from my concrete driveway or garage floor?
No. If CLR is mixed with oil, it will darken the concrete, which is very difficult to remove. To remove oil from concrete or blacktop, try our product CLR® Grease Magnet.
Is CLR septic safe?
Yes, CLR is septic safe. By the time it reaches the septic system it is neutralized with water.
Can I use CLR in my swimming pool?
No. Mixing CLR with chlorine (or any other household chemical) is not safe and could result in toxic fumes.
Can CLR be used on marble or synthetic marble?
No. The active ingredients in CLR will have a reaction with the marble.
Can CLR be used on galvanized metal?
No. Galvanized metal is coated with zinc. Zinc should never come into contact with anything too acidic. This will cause a chemical reaction with the zinc coating and it will discolor.
Can I clean cast iron with CLR?
No, CLR cannot be used on cast iron; the acids in CLR will react with the metal.
How long is the shelf life of CLR?
CLR should not be kept longer than 3 years. We suggest a new bottle after this length of time.
Is CLR safe on grass, shrubs, plants, and flowerbeds?
CLR is safe on grass, shrubs, bushes, plants, flowerbeds and all types of flora. We strongly recommend you water the area where the CLR will run down, land, or touch before and after using CLR.
Can CLR be used on pool tile?
Unfortunately, we do not recommend using CLR on pool tile. It could remove the finish from the tile. In addition, if CLR comes in contact with chlorine, it could result in toxic fumes.
Can I use CLR on my granite countertop?
Yes, CLR is safe on granite if the granite is in good condition. We strongly recommend testing a patch of the granite and waiting at least 5 minutes after rinsing to determine whether or not to continue cleaning.
Can I use CLR on my water heater?
No, Jelmar DOES NOT RECOMMEND the use of CLR on a water heater; however, there is a web site that does. Again, JELMAR DOES NOT RECOMMEND THE USE OF CLR IN A WATER HEATER. The reasons Jelmar does not recommend CLR to clean a water heater are: 1) the heat is not compatible with CLR; 2) the water heater cannot be promptly and thoroughly rinsed with cold, clean water; 3) the water heater might have internal metals that are not compatible with CLR .
Can I clean my vinyl siding with CLR?
No. CLR has not been tested enough on vinyl siding to ascertain the outcome. Furthermore, vinyl is manufactured in different forms and depending on the way it was produced the vinyl might not be able to sustain the acidity of CLR.
Can I clean my fiberglass boat, tub, or shower stall?
Yes, CLR is safe on fiberglass. Begin with a mixture of CLR and water and progress to full strength if needed.
How do I clean a front load washer using CLR?
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 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.
Can CLR be used on clothes?
No, CLR should never be used on clothing. Please find an appropriate stain remover or laundry detergent.
Can CLR be used to clean stains from rugs?
No, CLR should not be used to clean rugs. Please find an appropriate rug specialty cleaner.
Frequently Asked Questions CLR® Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner:
Is there a difference between CLR in the gray bottle and CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner in the yellow spray bottle?
Although they both come from the fine CLR family, they are formulated differently and solve different cleaning problems. See each product label for recommended uses along with the helpful information provided throughout our web site.
Is CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner safe on chrome or brass fixtures?
Yes, as long as the fixtures are in good condition and do not have any scratches. Follow the directions and do not leave CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on longer than two minutes.
Can CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner be used on colored grout?
No. It is only safe to use on white grout.
Can CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner be used on marble or synthetic marble?
No. The active ingredients in CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner will have a reaction with the marble.
Can I use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner in the washing machine or dishwasher to get rid of rust and lime deposits?
No, CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner should not be used in the washing machine or dishwasher. The detergents in the product may foam excessively when agitated. Use CLR in the gray bottle for these applications.
Can I mix CLR & CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner?
No. The two products have different ingredients and, as is true with any cleaner, should never be mixed with another cleaner.
Is CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner safe on vinyl?
No, it is not safe on vinyl. It could have a reaction with the top coating and discolor it.
Can I use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on my one-piece shower enclosure?
Only if the shower enclosure does not have a synthetic coating on it. Be sure to test a small, hidden area before cleaning the entire shower and wipe dry to check for any adverse effects.
Is CLR Bath & Kitchen safe on acrylic?
Yes, CLR Bath & Kitchen is perfectly safe for acrylic. Follow the directions on the bottle and be sure to rinse after 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions CLR® Outdoor Furniture Cleaner :
What can I use CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner on?
It can be used on resin, plastic, rattan, wicker, wood, wrought iron, vinyl, PVC and canvas.
Can CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner be used on colored resin?
Yes. Resin is a type of plastic and CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner is safe on white and colored resin including resin furniture and resin sporting or play equipment.
Will CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner harm my flowers and grass?
No, CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner is biodegradable. Be sure to fully rinse the furniture and the grass with the hose after cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions CLR® Metal Clear:
What types of countertops can CLR Metal Clear be used on?
CLR Metal Clear can be used on Corian, granite and laminated countertops.
Can I use CLR Metal Clear on marble?
No. It may scratch the surface of the marble.
Will CLR Metal Clear work to remove hard water stains from my kitchen sink?
Yes. CLR Metal Clear will remove hard water stains from stainless steel, porcelain and aluminum.
Can I use CLR Metal Clear to remove spots on clothing or fabrics?
No. We do not recommend using CLR Metal Clear on clothing or fabrics.
Can I use CLR Metal Clear to polish my automobile hubcaps?
Yes. CLR Metal Clear does a great job of cleaning chrome, stainless steel and aluminum hubcaps and wheels.
How long can I leave CLR Metal Clear on a surface?
We recommend 2-3 minutes. After rubbing CLR Metal Clear over the area you are cleaning, rinse thoroughly (see "Directions for Use" below). You may repeat at full strength if the area did not come completely clean.
Frequently Asked Questions CLR® Grease Magnet:
How long can I leave CLR Grease Magnet on a stain before rinsing?
As the directions state (see "Directions for Use" below), Grease Magnet should only be left on a surface 1-5 minutes then rinsed off. If the stain persists, the application of Grease Magnet may be repeated.
What will happen if I leave CLR Grease Magnet on too long?
If Grease Magnet is left on too long and begins to dry, it can be very difficult to remove.
What can I use CLR Grease Magnet on?
Grease Magnet can be used on concrete, terrazzo, granite, asphalt, stone floors and barbeque grills to remove oil, grease and tar.
Frequently Asked Questions CLR® Power Plumber:
HOW DOES CLR POWER PLUMBER WORK?
CLR Power Plumber is a compressed gas. When the formula in the can is released and comes in contact with water in your drain, it expands rapidly, creating a standing wave. It uses the water in your pipe as a battering ram pushing the blockage through and cleaning the walls of your pipes.
WHAT CAN CLR POWER PLUMBER BE USED ON?
CLR Power Plumber can be used to unclog blocked sinks and tubs, slow-moving drains, double sinks, toilets, shower drains, floor drains and garbage disposals.
WHY DO I NEED THE CLR POWER PLUMBER KIT?
The kit comes with an extension handle and 2 way universal adapter. These pieces make it possible to use CLR Power Plumber in toilets, urinals, on floor and shower drains and garbage disposals
HOW MANY APPLICATIONS ARE IN A CAN?
There are up to 15 applications in one 4.5 oz. can of CLR Power Plumber.
WHAT KIND OF CLOG WILL CLR POWER PLUMBER WORK ON?
CLR Power Plumber will work on any clog, including hair, grease, food particles and soap build-up.
HOW FAR DOWN WILL CLR POWER PLUMBER WORK ON A CLOG?
50’ down a 1.5” diameter pipe
40’ down a 2” diameter pipe
35’ down a 3.5” diameter pipe
25’ down a 4” diameter pipe
18’ down a 5” diameter pipe
WILL CLR POWER PLUMBER HARM MY PIPES?
Even with the capability of cleaning a blockage up to 50 feet away, you can be assured that any sound plastic or metal pipe will not be subject to danger.
DOES CLR POWER PLUMBER WORK ON SLOW MOVING DRAINS?
Yes! CLR Power Plumber works great on this annoying problem. Simply follow the directions for a blocked drain (below) ensuring that you fully submerge the green cap in water. Then give CLR Power Plumber a slightly longer application. Your drain will run free once again.
HOW OFTEN CAN I USE CLR POWER PLUMBER?
We suggest using CLR Power Plumber monthly to keep your pipes free flowing and to prevent obstructions.
WHAT ABOUT THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY AND THE ENVIRONMENT?
CLR Power Plumber is safe to have around your family because it is non-toxic. It contains no harsh chemicals, acids or lye. It is non-polluting and will not contaminate ground water. Even the can is recyclable!
WHERE CAN I FIND CLR POWER PLUMBER?
Visit our "Where to Buy" section of the website for a complete list of participating retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions CLR® Septic System:
WHAT IS A SEPTIC SYSTEM?
A Septic System is a self contained Underground wastewater treatment system.The Septic System is composed of a septic tank and a leach/absorption area.
WHAT IS A SEPTIC SYSTEM'S PURPOSE IN THE HOUSEHOLD?
The purpose of the tank is to treat household wastes. The tank treats the waste by the water falling to the bottom, the solids that are lighter float to the top and the heavier waste/sludge goes to the bottom.The sludge/solids that fall to the bottom must be treated with a Septic System treatment to convert these materials into liquids which then will flow to the drain field.
WHERE CAN I FIND CLR SEPTIC SYSTEM?
Visit our "Where to Buy" section of the website for a complete list of participating retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions Tarn-X®:
Can I soak an item in Tarn-X?
We recommend using a cotton ball or soft cloth for the best application. However, dipping smaller items (such as sterling silver jewelry) may be easier. It is important to rinse with cold water IMMEDIATELY and do not let Tarn-X dry. Never keep Tarn-X on an item longer than a maximum of two minutes.
How important is it to rinse an item after using Tarn-X?
Rinsing with cold water IMMEDIATELY after use is one of the most important steps. If Tarn-X is not completely rinsed off it may darken or discolor your silver.
Why did my silver darken or discolor after using Tarn-X?
Silver may turn golden or dark gray in color if Tarn-X is left on too long and/or is allowed to dry on the silver.
To remove the discoloration, fill a small bowl with 1/2 warm water, 1/2 Tarn-X and two drops of dish soap (Palmolive, Joy, etc.). With a soft clean cloth, wash the item with the mixture and rinse with cold clean water immediately. Dry the item off with a soft clean cloth. As a final step, apply a silver polish, such as Tarn-X® Silver Glaze to protect the item. This should restore your piece to its original condition. For large items, make sure you clean about 1/3 of the item at a time.
What can I do if I left Tarn-X on too long?
If Tarn-X is left on too long and is allowed to dry, it may discolor. To remove the discoloration, see the instructions above.
Is Tarn-X safe to use on stainless steel?
Tarn-X should never be used on or near stainless steel, as it may stain or discolor it. This includes stainless steel flatware and sinks.
Can I use Tarn-X on my knives?
Only if your knives are silver or silver plated. Use caution! Your knives may appear to be "silver", but have stainless steel blades with silver-plated handles. If Tarn-X is used on the stainless steel blade, it will discolor it. Look on the blade of your knife for silver or stainless steel stamp or contact the manufacturer. If in doubt, test in a small, hidden area. See the following question for possibly correcting this problem.
How do I remove Tarn-X discoloration from stainless steel?
To attempt to remove the stain, immediately clean the discolored area with baking soda, applied with cold water and a soft rag or steel wool. Be careful not to scratch the surface. Also try running very cold water over the discoloration until it disappears. If this does not work, use a stainless steel and aluminum cleaner, such as CLR® Metal Clear, to attempt to remove the stain.
What is ‘artificially oxidized silver’ and how can I identify it?
Artificially oxidized silver is silver that has gone through a chemical treatment to alter its look and luster. It gives silver a smoky, almost blackened look. Do NOT use Tarn-X on artificially oxidized silver, as it will remove the artificial oxidation treatment from the silver.
Is Tarn-X safe to use on brass?
No, Tarn-X is not safe to use on brass. This is because brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and the acids in Tarn-X effect zinc.
Why did my copper darken or discolor after using Tarn-X?
The Tarn-X was probably left on too long and/or allowed to dry. To remove the discoloration, use a copper cream or polish, such as Tarn-X® Copper Glaze and follow the directions to restore the shine.
Why does Tarn-X have a mild "chemical odor"?
The odor is the active ingredients in Tarn-X coming into contact with tarnish. This indicates that the tarnish, which is sulfur, is actually being removed with Tarn-X.
Does Tarn-X harm clothing?
Yes. When working with Tarn-X products avoid contact with your clothing. Tarn-X can stain or discolor fabrics/clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions Tarn-X® Silver Glaze:
You suggest using Tarn-X Silver Glaze after using Tarn-X Tarnish Remover. Why?
Tarn-X Tarnish Remover quickly removes tarnish from silver, while Tarn-X Silver Glaze polishes and shines. Tarn-X Silver Glaze also protects with an invisible shield that slows the formation of tarnish. Tarn-X Silver Glaze is not a required step, it will simply make your silver look even better.
Can I use Tarn-X Silver Glaze on copper or brass?
No, Tarn-X Silver Glaze should only be used on silver and silver plate.
Frequently Asked Questions Tarn-X® Jewelry Cleaner:
What jewelry shouldn't I use Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner on?
Do not use Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner on antiqued jewelry, enameled jewelry, pearls, opals or other porous stones.
Can Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner be used on my expensive gold?
Yes, it can. Follow the directions on the back of the jar (or see "Tips for Use" section) and your gold will come out sparkling.
Can I use Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner on my jewelry if I am not sure what it is made out of?
Without knowing what it is made of, there is not a yes or no answer. If you think the jewelry might be antiqued, or made of emerald, pearl, opal or other porous stones, do not use Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner. We suggest testing a small area with a Q-tip and rinse immediately. If it seems to help, follow the directions for cleaning the whole item with Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner.
How long can I soak my jewelry in Tarn-X Jewelry Cleaner?
90 seconds total is recommended, 30 seconds to agitate and 60 seconds to soak.
