Traditional Cleaning Ingredients 

Which Traditional Cleaning Ingredient Do You Need? 

Bicarbonate of soda is a useful option for deodorising and gently cleaning washable household surfaces. Its mild abrasive action can help loosen everyday dirt without the strength of heavier-duty cleaning products. 

Soda crystals are better suited to grease, stubborn grime and household maintenance. They’re commonly used for cleaning ovens, bins, drains and washing machines, as well as helping with greasy laundry. 

Citric acid is used where mineral deposits are the main problem. It can help remove limescale from suitable appliances and surfaces, although it shouldn’t be used on acid-sensitive materials such as natural stone. 

Sodium percarbonate releases oxygen when dissolved in water. It’s used as a laundry whitener, stain remover and general cleaning powder, particularly for white and colourfast washable fabrics. 

Terre de Sommières is an absorbent French cleaning clay used on oily and greasy stains. It can be sprinkled onto a dry stain, left to absorb the mark and then brushed or vacuumed away according to the instructions. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What can bicarbonate of soda be used for when cleaning? 

Bicarbonate of soda can help deodorise and gently clean many washable surfaces. It’s commonly used in sinks, bins and other areas where smells or light grime build up. Check suitability before using it on delicate finishes. 

Is sodium percarbonate the same as bicarbonate of soda? 

No. Sodium percarbonate is an oxygen-based whitener and stain remover, while bicarbonate of soda is mainly used for deodorising and mild cleaning. 

What is Terre de Sommières? 

Terre de Sommières is a fine absorbent clay traditionally used in France to remove oily and greasy marks. It works by absorbing the stain rather than washing it out with water.