I can't say enough about TSP - trisodium phosphate. I use it for almost all cleaning jobs as it is the ultimate degreaser and, best of all, it is cheap and goes extremely far. In fact, 1/4 cup per gallon does the trick for most jobs like smudges, soap scum and soot. For heavier jobs, like removing mold and mildew, just spike the mixture to 1/2 cup per gallon.
TSP is available in most hardware stores in a white powder form. It is harmless if small quantities are ingested and is even used as a buffering agent in some drugs.
The only drawback with cleaning is that TSP should be kept away from metal as it can be corrosive in large doses.This is why it should not be used in bathrooms. Otherwise it won't hurt wood or other substances.
For painters TSP offers the best wall preparation going. It removes any and all substances that might not prevent a bond between the paint and the surface.
Although not harmful in small doses TSP is a base and large amounts can cause caustic burns, As well, being a phosphate it can be harmful to the environment ii large amounts. However, in small cleaning jobs it is fine.
Thanks for the recommendation!
It is hard to find a good cleaner. I am about to start a project where I will be working with some wood. I already have some in my shed, but it is covered in mold. I will try using TSP to remove the mold, so I can use this wood. I'll look for it in the hardware store, as you recommend.
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