You’ve likely seen the commercials on television, but what is an enzyme cleaner?
Enzyme cleaners are also safe and often more affordable than other stain and odor removal agents.
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What Is an Enzyme Cleaner?
Credit:Getty Images / Paolo Cordoni
Enzyme cleaners are biological compounds used to break down organic waste.
Some enzyme cleaners are naturally occurring, while others are chemically produced.
Protein stains respond very well to this process.
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Milk,blood, and bodily fluids are the best examples of these types of stains.
While all enzyme cleaners act as a catalyst for breaking down bio-based soils, specific enzymes target different soils.
When used correctly, enzyme cleaners eliminate stains and odors by breaking down organic molecules.
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Enzyme cleaners work best in warm, moist conditions, Edelman says.
Too hot a temperature will hurt the action, and too cold will not be as effective.
The enzyme action needs moisture to work.
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Enzyme cleaners can be used on any surface or material that can get wet.
The most effective way to use enzymes for laundry is as a pre-soak before washing.
This is especially true of set-in stains, includingdark stains on the underarms of shirts.
Mix the enzyme cleaner as directed until it is fully dissolved.
Then, place your items in the solution, ensuring they are completely submerged and saturated.
Soak them for the recommended time.
Heavily stained items should soak for the maximum time prescribed, typically 8 hours to overnight.
After soaking, drain the solution and launder the items as usual.
There is no need to rinse items after soaking and before laundering.
Read and follow all package directions for usage.
Before treating the stain,blot or pick up as much pet waste as possibleusing paper towels or rags.
Repeat the process if needed to completely break down and eliminate stains and odors created by the pet mess.
Wait for the area to air-dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
Enzyme cleaners are safe and effective stain and odor removers, but they do not have disinfectant properties.
Most enzyme cleaners have a shelf life of about one to two years.
After their expiration date, the products will likely degrade or lose their effectiveness.
After the first 2 weeks, do this once daily or every other day.
After several weeks, use cheesecloth or a strainer to remove the citrus peels and debris.
Pour the fermented mix into a spray bottle and use within 2 months.
Keep the mixture tightly sealed and discard if mold begins to grow.
