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What’s the science behind how cleaning products remove dirt and bacteria?Cleaning products work by leveraging chemistry and biology to break down, lift, and eliminate unwanted substances from surfaces. Most cleaning agents contain active ingredients—such as surfactants, enzymes, or disinfectants—that target specific types of dirt and microorganisms.Surfactants are molecules that reduce surface tension, allowing…
SUMMARY/PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE OF POSITIONReporting to the Director, Environmental Health and Safety, the Manager, Environmental Science Affairs supports ACI’s environmental science work through management of research, modeling, and technical initiatives focused on the environmental fate, transport, and exposure of cleaning product ingredients.While positioned within the Environmental Health function, this role is dedicated to environmental…
I’ve heard enzymatic cleaners can be helpful for removing stains. What are the best tips for using cleaning products with enzymes effectively? Enzymatic cleaners are gaining popularity for their ability to tackle tough stains using the power of enzyme proteins. Through biological processes, enzymes break down organic stains and residues, making them effective for removing pet accidents, food spills and more. Identify the right…
The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) submitted formal comments to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in response to the agency’s Background Document on Microplastics in Consumer Products Research.“ACI aligns with DTSC’s goal to reduce the release of microplastics into the environment during all stages of the consumer product life cycle,” said Dan Selechnik, Director, Environmental Health and Safety, American Cleaning Institute. “Clear…
Q. Are there anything other than intentionally added ingredients in cleaning products?A. Yes. Cleaning products primarily contain intentionally added ingredients that help them clean effectively, such as surfactants, builders, solvents, enzymes, preservatives, fragrances, and other functional ingredients. In some cases, cleaning products may also contain extremely small amounts of substances that are not…
A Journey Through the Last Century of Cleaning
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Marie Gargas promoted to Associate Vice PresidentTwo new hires advance ACI’s Sustainability and Science initiativesThe American Cleaning Institute (ACI) announced the promotion of Marie Gargas to Associate Vice President, Regulatory and International Affairs. The Institute also welcomed Leeann Arthur as Senior Director, Sustainability and Lilian Lam Josephson, Ph.D., as Senior Director, Public Health.“These leadership additions strengthen ACI’s ability to serve…
Comments on draft CCL 6 warn that unresolved questions around terminology, measurement and health relevance could complicate future screening and rulemaking under the Safe Drinking Water ActThe American Cleaning Institute (ACI) urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure that any future action on microplastics under the Safe Drinking Water Act is grounded in validated methods, fit-for-purpose definitions and a stronger underlying evidence base.ACI views were…
ACI Distinguished Paper Award Presented at AOCS Annual MeetingPublished in the Journal of Surfactants and Detergents, the study demonstrates a high-throughput approach to screening surfactant additives and linking structure to performance.A group of Dow researchers who developed new methods of evaluating surfactant effectiveness and efficiency has been recognized with authoring the best paper published in 2025 in the Journal of Surfactants and Detergents.The honor was presented during the 2026…
Are cleaning products safe?
OverviewBy following label instructions and recommended safety practices, families can confidently and safely use cleaning products in their homes and communities.Modern cleaning products undergo scientific testing and are subject to regulatory oversight, helping to substantiate their safety when used as directed. In fact, proper usage of cleaning products can promote wellness by…