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?
Mix equal amounts of CLR and warm water. Test the solution on a hidden area before applying to the entire surface. Use CLR in a well-ventilated area while wearing household rubber gloves and standing on a non-slip 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. Some surfaces on which we recommend using CLR: stainless steel, glass.
How do I mix CLR?
Not all stains require the full strength of CLR, so diluted mixtures might be more suitable. For light stains and buildup, a diluted mixture of 1 part CLR to 8 parts warm water is recommended. For moderate stains, you can use a 50/50 solution of CLR to warm water. For stubborn build up, full strength is recommended, but only when diluted has been tried first. 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 the 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 Keurig, Gevalia, or Cuisinart coffee makers.
How do I use CLR to clean coffee pots, pans or tea kettles?
Pour enough CLR to cover the bottom. Swish around in a 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?
CLR in dishwasher: Run an empty load without detergent up to the main wash cycle, (allowing enough water to fill before the cycle begins to agitate) and add one-half cup of CLR. Finish the cycle. Run one additional cycle with water alone to “rinse setting” to rinse the machine fully.
CLR in 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 the cycle. Run one additional full cycle (wash and rinse) with cold water only to rinse the machine fully. (See separate instructions for Front Loading Machines)
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.
How do I clean my humidifier with CLR?
Pour enough CLR into the 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?
When using CLR on aluminum or CLR on copper, note that 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. Be mindful that using CLR on plastic, depending on the plastic type, might discolor it or cause structural damage. CLR may etch older sinks, tubs and tiles because it 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 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 a 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. Repeat at full strength if necessary.
I used CLR to clean my glasses and it did not remove the deposits. Do you know why?
The glasses could be etched, in which case CLR might not be able to help remove the cloudiness. The cloudiness of etched glass is made up of 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 the 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 the 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 you use CLR on granite?
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's CLR Instructions do not recommend the use of CLR in a water heaters. 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. Jelmar is the manufacturer of both CLR and Tarn-X Brands.
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, you can safely use CLR on fiberglass. Begin with a mixture of CLR and water and progress to full strength if needed.
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 a 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. It is recommended to test CLR with an old filter to observe for any issues.
Can you use CLR on a Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Plastic Roof?
TPO Plastic Roofs can be contaminated or stained by rusty equipment, etc. In these situation, using CLR should be ok as long as you 1) don’t apply it in the sun, 2) mix 50/50 with water, 3) apply to a small area, rinse, then dry, and 4) wait 24 hours to observe for side effects. 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.
Natural stone is porous and soft, such as limestone, terrazzo, marble, slate, and some granite. Compared to others on this list, granite is a harder stone and may require special care. It is always a good idea to test CLR on a small area before using it to ensure there are no unwanted side effects.
Texas and other southwest states tend to use concrete and stones mixed together and the mixture is applied to the outside of commercial buildings in a similar fashion to stucco. It is not recommended to use CLR on painted stucco surfaces as it will lighten the paint, but white (natural color) is okay.
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 are generally made from epoxy which is based on an acid, which is reactive. Neutral cleaners (pH of 9) are only recommended when cleaning sealed surfaces. CLR Grease Magnet may work, if diluted 50/50 with water. The problem is the pH is 11.5.
Can CLR be used to clean the inside of a Dairy tanker between uses?
Yes, CLR can be used to clean milk tankers which are entirely made of stainless steel. Dilute the CLR– 1 part CLR to 8 parts water– then rinse with cold water. Since CLR Pro is not food grade, 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 as 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?
There is no record or report of CLR being used 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), meaning CLR products could compromise the finish.
How is this used specifically on RV's?
Mix 1 part CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust to 8 parts water, let sit for 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 sanitize?
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 CLR cleaner family, these two products are formulated differently and solve different cleaning problems. See each product label for recommended uses along with the helpful CLR instructions provided throughout our website.
How do I use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner?
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. 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 can lighten the grout color over time or discolor it.
Can you use CLR Bathroom & Kitchen Cleaner on granite?
Yes, our CLR Pro Bath & CLR Pro Kitchen Cleaners are safe on granite.
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 thoroughly rinsed off of the surface in under two minutes. Tests 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?
You can use CLR cleaner 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 CLR cleaner 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 cleaner is great for cleaning pet bowls from food grime, and bacteria that regular soap doesn't clean off! Spray CLR Bath & Kitchen on your ceramic, stainless steel, or plastic bowl. Leave on for 2 minutes and use a sponge or brush to scrub, then 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?
Per CLR instructions, Grease Magnet should only be left on a surface for 1-5 minutes before being 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?
CLR Septic System Treatment can be used in septic systems up to 1,500 gallons. Always shake the bottle 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 leech/absorption area.
What is a septic system's purpose in the household?
The purpose of the tank is to treat household wastes. Within the water-filled tank, light solids float to the top and heavier waste/sludge settle towards the bottom. This waste/sludge must be treated with a septic system treatment to convert these materials into liquids, allowing them to flow to the drain field.
Where can I find CLR Septic System Treatment?
The Cary Company offers CLR Pro Septic Treatment at wholesale price!
Can I use CLR Septic System Treatment in my RV or motorhome?
Yes, CLR Septic System Treatment can be used in an RV or motorhome.
How is this used specifically on RV's?
To use CLR Pro Septic System Treatment in an RV, add between 2 ½ teaspoons and 1 tablespoon to your 100 gallon tank every time you clean it out.
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. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) suggests to "Store in a cool area, away from heat." Cool temperatures generally fall between 68 to 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 are living microorganisms that multiply rapidly, continuing to degrade organic matter upon contact. Enzymes, on the other hand, are biological molecules that act as catalysts. They are often specific to particular tasks and require specific conditions, such as time and the right environment, to become active and effective.
The microbes in CLR Septic utilize organic matter found in septic tanks as their food source. Since it is their food source, the microbes digest the carbon chains, the organic matter, and yield a minimal 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 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 congealed 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 Design for the Environment -recognized microbial septic formulation to date in the program's history.
Have we ever used CLR Septic in porta potties? If so, what is the recommended use?
The product should not be used in porta potties. Porta potties already use a lot of chemicals and fragrances to kill bacteria.
Can CLR Septic be used in showers?
CLR Septic can be used in showers, but only after they 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. It is recommended to give the product sufficient time to move along the drain lines to the sewer or septic tank.
Can CLR eat hydrocarbon stains on concrete? Like a car oil spill in your garage or at a gas station pump?
Yes, CLR Septic System Treatment 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 CLR Grease Magnet.
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 than 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees centigrade), or else the bacteria starts to die off. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) suggests to "Store in a cool area, away from heat." Cool temperatures generally fall between 68 to 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 are living microorganisms that multiply rapidly, continuing to degrade organic matter upon contact. Enzymes, on the other hand, are biological molecules that act as catalysts. They are often specific to particular tasks and require specific conditions, such as time and the right environment, to become active and effective.
The microbes in CLR Septic utilize organic matter found in septic tanks as their food source. Since it is their food source, the microbes digest the carbon chains, the organic matter, and yield a minimal 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 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 congealed 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 Design for the Environment -recognized microbial septic formulation to date in the program's history.
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 the 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 avoid letting 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 metal. 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. 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 leave 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 a 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. 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?
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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
- MSDS for CLR Pro Grease Magnet
- MSDS for CLR Pro Septic Treatment System
- MSDS for Tarn - X Pro Tarnish Remover
- MSDS for CLR Pro Stone Cleaner
- MSDS for CLR Pro Stainless Steel Cleaner
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