CLR® Pro Frequently Asked Questions
CLR® Pro Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover - CLR® Pro Bath & Kitchen Cleaner - CLR® Pro Grease Magnet Cleaner - CLR® Grease Trap Treatment
CLR® Pro Septic Treatment - Tarn-X® Tarnish Remove - CLR® Stone Cleaner - CLR® Stainless Steel Cleaner - MSDS for CLR® Industrial Products
Have an application or usage question?
Call CLR Customer Service at 800-323-5497 ext 693
CLR® Pro Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover:
How do I use CLR?
In a well-ventilated area while wearing household rubber gloves and standing on a non-slip surface, mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water. Test the solution on a hidden area before applying to the entire surface. Apply directly to the calcium, lime or rust stain with a brush, cloth or sponge and rinse promptly with cold, clean water. Never leave CLR on an area for longer than two minutes. If the stain does not disappear, use CLR full strength and then wipe and rinse promptly with cold, clean water. Never mix CLR with other household cleaners or bleach and never reuse the bottle.
How do I mix CLR?
CLR can be mixed with warm water, 1 of three ways depending on the stain. For light stains and buildup, a diluted mixture is recommended. For more stubborn buildup, full strength is recommended, but only when diluted has been tried first. Diluted 1 part CLR to 8 parts warm water, 50/50 with warm water and full strength. Rarely, depending on the situation, a 1 part to 12 part dilution has been recommended and that was in a water fountain made with rocks. And always rinse with cold water to neutralize.
How do I use CLR to clean my coffee maker?
Mix one part (quarter of a cup) CLR to eight parts (2 cups) water. For single cup coffeemakers, use only one capful of CLR. Run through coffee maker as if making coffee. Rinse thoroughly by running two full pots of cold, clean water through a complete cycle. Instructions are for a regular 8-12 cup coffee maker. *Do not use CLR in coffee makers that hold water permanently. *Do not use CLR in espresso machines. *We do not recommend using any CLR products in a Kuerig, Gevalia, or Cuisinart coffee makers.
How do I use CLR to clean coffee pots, pans or tea kettles?
Pour enough CLR to cover bottom. Swish around in pot or pan. Add one cup of hot water, allow mixture to soak for two minutes and thoroughly rinse with cold, clean water.
How do I use CLR to clean my dishwasher or washing machine?
Dishwasher: Run an empty load without detergent up to the main wash cycle, (allowing enough water to fill before cycle begins to agitate) and add one-half cup of CLR. Finish cycle. Run one additional cycle with water alone to “rinse setting” to rinse machine fully.
Washing Machine: Run your empty machine without detergent up to the main wash cycle, which is where the water stops and the cycle is about to agitate. Stop the machine and add one-half cup of CLR. Finish cycle. Run one additional full cycle (wash and rinse) with cold water only to rinse machine fully. (See separate instructions for Front Loading Machines)
How do I clean my humidifier with CLR?
Pour enough CLR into humidifier to cover the bottom and use a brush or sponge to wipe away stains. Add hot water and soak until thoroughly clean. Rinse thoroughly with cold, clean water.
Can I clean the filter to my humidifier?
Use only on metal filters. Dilute equal parts of CLR and warm water into a plastic container. Dip the filter into the solution for about two minutes. Brush to loosen buildup and rinse with cold, clean water. Allow to dry.
What will CLR do to copper or aluminum?
CLR will take the finish off of aluminum and copper.
What surfaces should I not use CLR on?
DO not use CLR on natural stone or marble, terrazzo, colored grout, painted or metallic glazed surfaces, plastic laminates, Formica, aluminum, steam irons, leaded crystal, refinished tubs or any damaged or cracked surface. CLR may etch older sinks, tubs and tiles. CLR is corrosive. Avoid contact with wood, clothing, wallpaper and carpeting. Some laminated surfaces (counter tops) are coated with a synthetic surface which may be affected by rust removers; clean spills immediately.
Can I put CLR in a spray bottle?
No, CLR is acidic in nature. When using CLR it in a spray bottle, the solution could "spray back" on your clothes or in your eyes and the spray could drift.
How do I use CLR to clean a showerhead?
Remove the showerhead and submerge it in half CLR and half hot water. 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. Use brush or sponge to loosen up buildup.
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® Pro 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 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 CLR be used on marble or synthetic marble?
No. The active ingredients in CLR will have a reaction with the marble. If you spill CLR accidentally on these surfaces, make sure to call a marble professional for further instructions.
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. Make sure cap is on tight after each use.
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 I use CLR on my granite countertop?
We do not recommend using our CLR Pro Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover on granite, however, our CLR Pro Bath & CLR Pro Kitchen Cleaners are safe on granite.
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?
Yes. You can use CLR on 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.
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?
Add ½ cup of CLR Pro Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover to the soap dispenser…..use only ¼ cup if the machine is HE (High Efficiency) as it uses less water than a conventional washing machine. Run a normal cycle followed by an extra rinse cycle.
Can CLR be used on clothes or fabric?
No, CLR should never be used on clothing. Please find an appropriate stain remover or laundry detergent. If CLR is spilled on fabric, you must rinse immediately. It may lighten the fabric due to the lactic acid lightening capability.
Can CLR be used on paver stones?
Yes, it can but must be non-colored or stamped concrete versus color paver.
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.
Can I use CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust to clean my pet bowls?
Yes, CLR is great for cleaning pet bowls from food grime, and bacteria that regular soap doesn't clean off! Dilute equal parts warm water and CLR to clean ceramic, stainless steel or plastic bowls. Leave on for 2 minutes and use sponge or brush to agitate and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Can a filtration system for a natural gas compressor be cleaned with CLR?
If the filter for the compressor is made from 304 stainless steel, polypropylene over polypropylene, and glass over 316 stainless steel , CLR can be used ! Some filters also have cotton over the stainless steel. I do not know how well this will hold up after cleaning with CLR. They may have to try an experiment with a old filter. We have never had any problems with CLR and cotton balls or pads in the lab for experiments.
Regarding a Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO), Plastic Roof. A Contractor came in and set rusty equipment that leached stains on top of the roof, and wants to remove the rust stains that were left on the roof by the other contractor by using our CLR.
It should be okay we are worried about the color of the material so here is what should happen. 1) do not apply in the sun 2) mix 50/50 with water. 3) apply to small area then rinse and dry. 4) Wait 24 hrs to see if there were any effects. 5) continue if satisfied with the results.
What technically is natural stone?
According to the CLR Pro label, one of the "Do not use on" surfaces is natural stone. Texas and the southwest in general use concrete and stones mixed together and the mixture is applied to the outside of commercial buildings in a similar fashion to stucco.
Natural stone is anything porous/soft such as limestone, terrazzo, marble, slate, some granite...although granite is a harder stone meaning it's not as soft or porous as the others mentioned, so care should be taken with this material. It's okay only when the granite is sealed, and the vendor says this product has been used successfully on sealed granite of cemetery head stones. The dilution was cut 1 part to 8 parts water, and always test before using fully. Some customers that used CLR on non-sealed granite said it worked fine without clouding the granite, which happens on marble since CLR is too acidic for the soft stone (or having a low pH of about a 2).
With stucco, you can't use CLR on painted surfaces. But if the stucco is white (natural color), then it's okay. But most stucco is painted (ex: homes in Florida, California and Southwest States like Texas), and CLR will lighten and break the paint down. Same I'm sure with the other similar material that is concrete mixed with stone.
Can CLR Pro be used to clean sealed floors?
Many warehouse and factory floors are sealed and appear glossy.
All concrete floors that are sealed in general are made from epoxy which is based on an acid which is reactive. Neutral cleaners (pH of 9) are only recommended when cleaning sealed surfaces. Grease Magnet may work, only if it was diluted 50/50 with water. The problem is the pH is a 11.5.
Can CLR be used to clean the inside of a Dairy tanker between uses?
East Texas has many dairy farms and each truck must be cleaned after it pumps the milk from the tanker at the processing plants.
Yes, CLR can be used to clean the milk tankers that are ONLY stainless steel (which, from the vendor's understanding, most tankers are). You want to use diluted again, 1 part CLR to 8 parts water, which is sufficient. Then rinse with cold water. The only problem per the vendor is that this product is not food grade approved. The user will need to follow the CLR treatment with a food grade detergent after rinsing with the cold water.
Can CLR Pro be used to clean colored concrete such as pool decks that are sprayed with colored concrete?
We don't recommend CLR on colored concrete, it will lighten the color and upset the finish.
Has CLR ever been used at water parks? If so what would be the best applications?
No CLR has not been used to date in waterparks.
Is the CLR product nickel safe?
We do not recommend that CLR products be used on any metals except for chrome or stainless steel. Any ‘polished’ finish usually has a coating and most nickel materials are combination metals (containing zinc) and CLR products could compromise the finish.
How is this used specifically on RV's?
CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust, mix 1 part CLR to 8 parts water, let sit 10-15 minutes and then flush with cold water thoroughly. These tanks are usually made from porcelain, or glass, or even plastic, which is fine.
Can we use the word santitize?
NO . The word "sanitize" indicates that you have an approved EPA product that has been tested.
MSDS for CLR Pro - Calcium Lime & Rust Remover
CLR Pro® Bathroom & CLR Pro® 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.
How do I use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner?
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, brush 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. If the stain persists, repeat the process. Do not use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner with other cleaners or bleach. Never reuse the bottle when it is empty.
Can CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner be used on colored grout?
No. It is only safe to use on white grout. If used on colored grout – it will lighten the grout color over time or discolor.
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.
Can I clean my vinyl siding with CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner?
Yes. You can use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on 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 Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner is left on the surface for five minutes or longer.
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 Bathroom & Kitchen safe on acrylic?
Yes, CLR Bathroom & Kitchen is perfectly safe for acrylic. Follow the directions on the bottle and be sure to rinse after 2-3 minutes.
What other surfaces should I not use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on when cleaning?
Do not use on stone, mirrors, plastic laminates, wood, fabrics, painted surfaces or wall coverings.
Can I use CLR Bath & Kitchen to clean my pet bowls?
Yes, CLR is great for cleaning pet bowls from food grime, and bacteria that regular soap doesn't clean off! Just spray CLR Bath & Kitchen on the bowl, can be ceramic, stainless steel or plastic bowl. Leave on for 2 minutes and use sponge or brush to agitate and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
MSDS for CLR Pro Bath & Kitchen Cleaner
CLR Pro® 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.
How do I use CLR Grease Magnet?
To use Grease Magnet, sweep the area clean of heavy dirt and dust. For stains such as tar or heavy grease, scrape off as much as possible with a putty knife before cleaning. While wearing household rubber gloves test a small, hidden area of the surface first before cleaning the main area. Pour or brush full strength to 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. Clean the area with a clean brush or broom until the stain is loosened. Rinse at once with cool, clean water. Repeat the process if necessary. Do not use CLR Grease Magnet with any other cleaners, bleaches or acids. If cleaning near grass or shrubs, rinse the grass and shrubs before and after cleaning.
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. You can use CLR Grease Magnet for factory and garage floors, pool decks, sidewalks, ovens and driveways. Surfaces with high oil/ wax content can be adversely affected.
MSDS for CLR Pro Grease Magnet
CLR Pro® Septic Treatment System:
How do I use CLR Septic System Treatment?
Use in septic systems up to 1,500 gallons. Shake before use. Using the measuring window on the side of the bottle, pour 1/3 of the bottle directly into any toilet or drain line monthly. CLR Septic System Treatment is safe on pipes and porcelain and works on fats, oils, grease and other stubborn organic matter.
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 Treatment?
Visit our "Where to Buy" section of the website for a complete list of participating retailers.
Can I use CLR Septic System Treatment in my RV or motor home?
Yes, CLR Septic System Treatment can be used in an RV or motor home. Call our 800# (800- 323-5497) to find out the appropriate amount for your vehicle.
What is the highest temperature allowed for Pro Septic and Pro Commercial Drain Line & GT Treatment to be stored at?
No more 104 degrees Fahrenheit. (40 degrees centigrade), or else the bacteria starts to die off. MSDS says "Store in cool area, away from heat." Cool means 68 to 77, so no more than 77 degrees fahrenheit.
What is the benefit of using a live microbial bacteria formula (Pro Septic, Pro CDL & GT) compared to an enzyme based formula?
Bacteria and enzymes are two different species. Bacteria multiplies (that's what causes the organic matter to continue to degrade and it works on contact) whereas enzymes are normally specific to what you want to do (needs to sit and come to life, so it takes "specific time and conditions" to work).
The microbes in CLR Septic utilize organic matter found in septic tanks as their food source. Since it is their food source, the said microbes digest the carbon chains, the organic matter, and yield a minute amount of harmless natural byproduct. The CLR Septic formulation does not contain any free enzymes, soaps, surfactants, or any other agent that liquefies, dissolves, or changes organic matter into a soluble state. The CLR Septic microbes DEGRADE organic matter, they do not emulsify it.
Unlike the novel CLR Septic formulation, conventional septic products utilize microbes PLUS emulsifying agents such as free enzymes, soaps, and surfactants. These emulsifying agents may change congealed animal and vegetable fats, oils, and greases, for example, from a solid state into a liquid state which may mix into a septic system's gray water and flow out and into a drain or leech field. This course of action may potentially promote clogging of recongealed or matted soil that could hinder proper drainage in a septic drain field. This is one of the main reasons that the EPA's Design for the Environment will not recognize microbial septic formulations that contain emulsifying agents, and why the CLR Septic formulation has been the only DfE recognized microbial septic formulation to date in the program's history.
Have we ever used CLR Septic in portapotties? If so what is the recommend use?
The product should not be used in portappotties. They use a lot of chemicals and fragrances here and it will kill the bacteria. Not a good application point.
Trio Supply services a large group of health clubs in the MN territory. They have a big problem with controlling the odor in the shower drain areas. I know septic or cdl>t will help with odor but will it break down soap scum that accumulates in the drain pipes
In the men's showers, the product can be used, but only after showers are out of service and not being used. Pour about 2 to 4 oz. into each drain. The product will break down the soap scum, and also control the odors. When I mention the showers not being used, we want to give the product as much dwell time inside the p-traps of the shower before being washed down the line and moved along the drain lines to sewer or septic tank.
How is this used specifically on RV's?
CLR SST, They should add 2 1/2 teaspoons to a tablespoon every time they clean out the tanks - that's for a 100 gallon tank.
How many different types of bacteria strains are in the Munox formula we brand as Septic Treatment or Commercial Drain Line/Grease Trap Treatment?
It's a multi-strain (2 strains) Pseudomonas bacteria
How many bacteria are present in a gallon of Septic Treatment or Commercial Drain Line and Grease Trap Treatment compared to Spartan Consume which contains 200 billion digesters/enzymes?
There are 378 billion cfu (colony forming units) per gallon.
Can it eat hydrocarbon stains on concrete. Like a car oil spill in your garage or at a gas station pump?
Yes, it can but it's not designed to work on hard, exposed surfaces as it needs to be in a moist environment to thrive. In this case you would be better off using Grease Magnet.
With regard to the concrete application for hydrocarbon removal, if the environment will allow, use a wet towel over the treated area covered by poly to keep the environment moist?
You are right on. Our technical manager mentioned that the bacteria would eat the oil (hydrocarbon) but that extreme care to maintain the environment would be needed to complete the application. He also mentioned that soil with oil or petroleum present could be treated with the bacteria as long as it was kept moist. The soil would first need to be agitated to expose as much surface area as possible.
So, if a customer needs a green oil remover, Septic or CDL>T would fit the environmentally friendly profile and get the job done if used properly.
MSDS for CLR Pro Septic Treatment System
CLR Pro® Grease Trap Treatment:
What is the highest temperature allowed for Pro Septic and Pro Commercial Drain Line & GT Treatment to be stored at?
No more 104 degrees Fahrenheit. (40 degrees centigrade), or else the bacteria starts to die off. MSDS says "Store in cool area, away from heat." Cool means 68 to 77, so no more than 77 degrees fahrenheit.
What is the benefit of using a live microbial bacteria formula (Pro Septic, Pro CDL & GT) compared to an enzyme based formula?
Bacteria and enzymes are two different species. Bacteria multiplies (that's what causes the organic matter to continue to degrade and it works on contact) whereas enzymes are normally specific to what you want to do (needs to sit and come to life, so it takes "specific time and conditions" to work).
The microbes in CLR Septic utilize organic matter found in septic tanks as their food source. Since it is their food source, the said microbes digest the carbon chains, the organic matter, and yield a minute amount of harmless natural byproduct. The CLR Septic formulation does not contain any free enzymes, soaps, surfactants, or any other agent that liquefies, dissolves, or changes organic matter into a soluble state. The CLR Septic microbes DEGRADE organic matter, they do not emulsify it.
Unlike the novel CLR Septic formulation, conventional septic products utilize microbes PLUS emulsifying agents such as free enzymes, soaps, and surfactants. These emulsifying agents may change congealed animal and vegetable fats, oils, and greases, for example, from a solid state into a liquid state which may mix into a septic system's gray water and flow out and into a drain or leech field. This course of action may potentially promote clogging of recongealed or matted soil that could hinder proper drainage in a septic drain field. This is one of the main reasons that the EPA's Design for the Environment will not recognize microbial septic formulations that contain emulsifying agents, and why the CLR Septic formulation has been the only DfE recognized microbial septic formulation to date in the program's history.
Trio Supply services a large group of health clubs in the MN territory. They have a big problem with controlling the odor in the shower drain areas. I know septic or cdl>t will help with odor but will it break down soap scum that accumulates in the drain pipes.
MSDS for CLR Pro Grease Trap Treatment
Tarn-X® Pro Tarnish Remover:
How do I use Tarn-X?
Prior to using Tarn-X, use soap and hot water to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse with cold water and wipe dry before using Tarn-X. While wearing household rubber gloves, dip a cotton ball or soft cloth in Tarn-X and wipe on tarnished areas. For larger items, apply full strength Tarn-X to about 1/3 of article at a time, then rinse thoroughly. For heavily tarnished pieces, repeat the above process until all tarnish is dissolved. Tarn-X only removes tarnish. Always apply Tarn-X Silver Polish after using Tarn-X for optimum shine and luster. 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 and always test Tarn-X on a small area before cleaning the entire piece. Clean spills immediately. Some laminated surfaces (counter tops) are coated with a synthetic material which may be affected by 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.
What types of metals can I clean with Tarn-X?
Tarn-X will clean sterling silver, silver plate, platinum, copper, gold and even diamonds. Do not use Tarn-X on poorly plated silver, silver that has scratched or marred surfaces or any item that is not in good condition. Do not mix gold and silver items together when cleaning with Tarn-X.
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. When cleaning multiple items, always thoroughly rinse and towel dry each piece before continuing to the next item.
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 Polish 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 affect 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 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.
Where can you safely dispose of Tarn-X?
Tarn-X Tarnish Remover is considered hazardous waste. We recommend checking with your local municipality for proper disposal of hazardous materials.
Looking for Automotive Cleaning Products?
Check out our line of CLR® Pro Automotive Products for powerful automotive solutions!
CLR® Stone Cleaner & Stainless Steel Cleaner
MSDS for CLR Industrial Products
- MSDS for CLR Pro - Calcium Lime & Rust Remover
- MSDS for CLR Pro Bath & Kitchen Cleaner
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