The combination that will remove even the toughest stain:
- Heat energy
- Agitation energy
- Chemical energy
These three keys to cleaning; heat, agitation and chemical energy, work together to loosen soil, stains, oil, grease, proteins and fat.
Combine for Results
Examples of these energies working together are in everyday house cleaning tasks.
When cleaning dishes, the dishwasher uses hot and pressurized water (heat and agitation) along with soap (chemical) to rid dishes of grease. In the washing machine, hot water is jostled by the wand, adding heat and agitation. Degreasers in the detergent provide chemical energy to break bonds between soil and clothing. When you shower the pressure and loofa, heat and soap make up the three keys that thoroughly wash the body.
Next time you come across a stain that just won’t budge, try combining heat and agitation with chemical energy. Use the following table for a quick reference guide.
| HEAT | CHEMICAL | AGITATION | SAFETY |
| Steam Cleaner | Bleach | Vacuum Cleaner | Rubber Gloves Disposable Gloves |
| Hot water bucket | Vinegar | Grout Brush Scrub Brush | Goggles |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | All-Purpose Terry Rags | Face Masks | |
| Baking Soda | Scour Sponge | Footies | |
| Closed Toed Shoes |
The Science of Chemical Energy
Degreasing structures known as surfactants consist of hydrocarbon chains that have two ends. One end is attracted to water, the other, grease. When washing clothes, surfactants in detergent interact with soiled clothing, pulling stains out of the clothing and into the water solution.