As with any product containing chemicals, examine the label and follow the instructions carefully. Keep all household cleaners away from children and pets. Acids Acids are beneficial in removing hard-water deposits, discoloration from aluminum, brass, bronze, and copper and iron rust stains. Strong acids also eat away clothing, leather, and some metals. They can also irritate and injure the skin and eyes.
Vinegar removes hard-water deposits from glassware.
Lemon juice is a citric acid and works in much the same way as does vinegar. It is sometimes found in toilet bowl cleaners. Hydrochloric and sulfuric acid are used in dilute concentrations in some toilet bowl cleaners. Detergents Some laundry detergents may be used for housecleaning jobs. Abrasives Abrasives are materials that wear off dirt by rubbing.