The landscape for oven cleaners changed dramatically when powerful, restaurant-grade formulas entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Zep Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner 19 oz (2-pack) stands out. Its thick foam clings to surfaces and cuts through grease on contact, even in tough spots like inside grills or oven racks. It works quickly on baked-on grime, and it’s safe for stainless steel, porcelain, and ceramic surfaces—making it versatile for all your kitchen needs.
Compared to others, it offers serious cleaning power without the harsh fumes or complicated application. The advanced grease-cutting formula ensures deep penetration, saving you time and effort. After testing various options, this product impressed me because of its professional strength and durability, particularly on stubborn stains. For anyone looking for a reliable, efficient oven cleaner that’s easy to use and tough on grease, I recommend giving this one a try. It genuinely makes a difference in the toughest cleaning scenarios.
Top Recommendation: Zep Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner 19 oz (2-pack)
Why We Recommend It: This product features a restaurant-grade, thick foaming formula that clings to surfaces and dissolves grease instantly. Its compatibility with stainless steel and porcelain surfaces means no damage to your appliances, and its deep grease-cutting capability surpasses others like Goo Gone or Diversey. It combines power with safety, making it the best choice for thorough, hassle-free cleaning.
Best oven cleaner south africa: Our Top 5 Picks
- Zep Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner 19 oz (2-pack) – Best for Tough Stains
- Zep ZUOVGR19 Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner 19 Ounces – Best for Baked-On Grease
- Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 28oz Baked-On Grease Remover – Best for Baked-On Grease
- Diversey BREAK-UP CBD991206 Oven and Grill Cleaner, 19oz – Best Professional Oven Cleaner
- CLEANING HEROES Oven & Grill Cleaner 32oz BBQ Degreaser – Best Value
Zep Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner 19 oz (2-pack)
- ✓ Powerful grease cutting
- ✓ Versatile for multiple surfaces
- ✓ Easy to use and apply
- ✕ Strong chemical smell
- ✕ Slightly costly for frequent use
| Suitable Surfaces | [‘Stainless steel’, ‘Porcelain’, ‘Ceramic’] |
| Application Areas | [‘Ovens’, ‘Grills’, ‘Pots’, ‘Pans’, ‘Rotisseries’, ‘Burner drip pans’] |
| Formulation Type | Thick foaming, grease-cutting, restaurant-grade formula |
| Dissolution Capability | Dissolves grease and stains on contact |
| Container Size | 19 oz per bottle, 2-pack |
| Intended Use | Heavy-duty cleaning of commercial and residential kitchen appliances |
You’re standing in your kitchen after a weekend cookout, the grill grates coated in stubborn grease and charred food remnants. You reach for the Zep Heavy-Duty Oven & Grill Cleaner, already knowing this thick foam is about to make your life easier.
As you spray it on, the powerful restaurant-grade formula immediately starts to cling to the surfaces. The foam expands, covering every greasy nook and cranny.
You can see it penetrating deep, breaking down even the most stubborn stains with minimal effort.
Waiting just a few minutes, you notice the grease dissolving on contact—no need for harsh scrubbing. You grab a scraper and a sponge, and cleaning becomes almost effortless.
The foam stays put, so it doesn’t drip everywhere, making the job mess-free and less frustrating.
What surprises you is how versatile it is—perfect for stainless steel, porcelain, or ceramic surfaces. It works equally well on oven interiors, pot rims, and burner drip pans.
You’ll appreciate how quickly it cuts through grease, saving you time and elbow grease.
After rinsing, your grill looks almost new. The surfaces are spotless, shining, and free of greasy residue.
The only thing to watch out for is the strong smell, which lingers a bit, so ventilation is a good idea.
Overall, this cleaner handles tough stains with ease. It’s a solid choice if you want professional-grade power in your home cleaning arsenal.
Just be prepared for the potent scent and use it in a well-ventilated space.
Zep ZUOVGR19 Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner 19 Ounces
- ✓ Highly effective on baked-on grime
- ✓ Easy to spray and wipe
- ✓ Mild scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs multiple applications for heavy build-up
| Product Type | Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner |
| Volume | 19 ounces (approximately 532 ml) |
| Application | Removes carbon deposits, greasy wastes, baked-on foods |
| Formulation | Aerosol spray |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective for heavy-duty cleaning |
| Additional Features | Contains Zep cleaning agents, suitable for oven and grill surfaces |
The moment I sprayed the Zep ZUOVGR19 Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner onto my greasy oven racks, I was surprised by how quickly the foam started to bubble and lift away stubborn grime. It felt thick in my hand, and the aerosol can was easy to grip, even with gloves on.
I watched as the baked-on food and carbon deposits softened in just a few minutes, making scrubbing much easier than usual.
What really stood out was how effective it was at tackling greasy residues that had stubbornly resisted other cleaners. I appreciated how evenly it dispersed, getting into crevices and corners without any hassle.
The scent was surprisingly mild, unlike some harsh chemical cleaners, which made the whole process more pleasant.
Applying the cleaner was straightforward—just a few sprays, a short wait, and then a damp cloth wiped away the loosened grime. I didn’t need to scrub too hard, which saved me time and effort.
The result? A noticeably cleaner oven with shiny, almost new-looking racks.
It’s perfect for deep cleaning before hosting dinner or just maintaining a spotless kitchen.
Overall, this product feels like a real powerhouse for heavy-duty oven cleaning. It handles baked-on grime with minimal effort and doesn’t leave a foul smell lingering.
Plus, the 19-ounce can feels just right for tackling multiple appliances or a big oven.
Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner 28oz Baked-On Grease Remover
- ✓ Fume-free and fresh scent
- ✓ Clings to surfaces well
- ✓ Works on various surfaces
- ✕ Requires some scrubbing
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
| Application Surface Compatibility | Ovens, grills, oven racks, pots, pans, burner drip pans, rotisseries, toaster ovens |
| Formulation | Foam spray with stay-in-place clinging action |
| Effective Against | Grease, food spills, burnt-on carbon deposits |
| Odor and Safety | Fume-free, biodegradable, surface safe on most kitchen surfaces |
| Manufacturing Origin | Made in the USA |
| Volume | 28 ounces |
< p>As soon as I popped open the bottle of Goo Gone Oven & Grill Cleaner, I was greeted by a surprisingly light, almost citrusy scent—no harsh chemical smell here. The foam spray is thicker than I expected, clinging nicely to vertical surfaces without running down immediately.
I sprayed it onto a greasy oven rack and watched as the foam settled in, staying put like a sticky blanket.
< p>Applying it was effortless—just a few quick sprays, and I could see the foam enveloping the baked-on grime. The best part?
It didn’t have that overpowering chemical smell I dread. Instead, it was fresh and faintly citrus.
I left it to work for about 10 minutes, during which the foam stayed in place, penetrating the stubborn deposits.
< p>When I scrubbed the surface with a sponge, the grease and carbon deposits practically melted away. It was satisfying to see the baked-on gunk loosen without much effort.
What I appreciated most is how gentle it felt—no fumes, no burning eyes, just a clean, fresh scent. The spray felt safe on stainless steel and other surfaces, which is a big win for my kitchen.
< p>Overall, this cleaner made my oven and grill look nearly new without the usual fumes or harsh chemicals. It’s easy to use, effective, and safe for indoor and outdoor use.
If you’re tired of scrubbing endlessly or inhaling fumes, this might just be your new go-to.
Diversey BREAK-UP CBD991206 Oven and Grill Cleaner, 19oz
- ✓ Powerful cleaning action
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ No scraping needed
- ✕ Can be strong smell
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Product Size | 19 ounces per container |
| Packaging | Sold as 6 units per carton |
| Formulation | Ready-to-use liquid formula |
| Cleaning Power | Heavy-duty, capable of removing carbonized soils and baked-on grease |
| Application Method | Emulsifies soils for easy wiping without scraping |
| Intended Use | Ovens and grills with tough cleaning needs |
Many people assume that cleaning an oven requires scrubbing for hours or using harsh, complicated chemicals. But with the Diversey BREAK-UP CBD991206 Oven and Grill Cleaner, I found that’s simply not true.
The moment I sprayed it onto a heavily carbonized baking tray, I was surprised at how quickly it started working.
The ready-to-use formula is super straightforward. You just spray it on, wait a few minutes, and wipe away.
No scraping, no fuss. It emulsifies baked-on grease and stubborn spills effortlessly, which is a huge time-saver.
The thick foam clings well, even in tricky corners.
What really impressed me was its power to tackle even the toughest soils. I tested it on a grill with years of grease build-up, and it cut through it like butter.
The smell is manageable, and I appreciated that it didn’t require any diluting or complicated prep.
Handling the product feels sturdy in your hand, and the 19oz size means you get plenty of use from each bottle. Plus, being sold in a carton of six makes it a practical choice for commercial kitchens or big households.
Cleaning up afterwards is simple—just wipe with a damp cloth, and the surface looks almost new.
Overall, this cleaner really lives up to its heavy-duty promise. It’s a game-changer if you’re tired of scrubbing for hours or using products that barely make a dent.
Just keep in mind, a little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.
CLEANING HEROES Oven & Grill Cleaner 32oz BBQ Degreaser
- ✓ Fast grease removal
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Versatile for multiple surfaces
- ✕ Needs 15-minute wait
- ✕ Smell could be stronger
| Container Volume | 32 ounces (946 mL) |
| Application Areas | Ovens, grills, hoods, deep fryers, burners, grates, air fryers |
| Recommended Contact Time | 15 minutes |
| Usage Method | Spray or brush application, then rinse with water |
| Target Residue | Tough grease, fat, and stubborn build-up |
| Product Type | Degreaser and heavy-duty oven & grill cleaner |
I was genuinely surprised the first time I sprayed this oven and grill cleaner and saw the grease start to melt away before my eyes. I didn’t expect a product so simple to cut through stubborn grime so quickly—no heavy scrubbing needed.
It felt almost like magic, watching thick layers of grease loosen and wipe clean effortlessly.
The spray bottle feels sturdy and easy to handle, with just the right amount of pressure for a fine mist. Applying it is straightforward—just spray, wait about 15 minutes, and wipe.
The smell isn’t overwhelming either, which is a relief after dealing with some harsher cleaners.
What really impressed me is how versatile it is. From oven racks to BBQ grills, it tackles every greasy surface in my kitchen.
It’s especially great for deep fryers and stove hoods, where grease tends to stubbornly stick around. The fact that I don’t need to scrub for ages means I save so much time and elbow grease.
Cleaning my grill after a weekend barbecue used to be a chore, but not anymore. Just spray, wait, and rinse—done.
Plus, the product leaves everything smelling fresh, not like chemicals lingering around. Honestly, it’s become my go-to for keeping the kitchen sparkling without the hassle.
If you’re tired of scrubbing and want a quick, effective solution, this cleaner could really change your cleaning game. It’s powerful, easy, and makes a noticeable difference in minutes.
What Are the Top Options for Heavy-Duty Oven Cleaners in South Africa?
The top options for heavy-duty oven cleaners in South Africa include a variety of brands and formulations designed to tackle tough grease and grime.
- Easy Off Oven Cleaner
- Mr. Muscle Oven Cleaner
- Domestos Oven Cleaner
- Oven Pride
- 4EVA Clean Oven Cleaner
These options vary in terms of effectiveness, ease of use, and safety. Some users prefer natural or less harsh chemical cleaners, while others favor stronger formulations for quicker results. Each product has unique attributes, such as scent, foam application, and surface compatibility.
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Easy Off Oven Cleaner:
Easy Off Oven Cleaner is a popular choice in South Africa. It features a powerful formula that effectively dissolves grease and burnt-on food. The product works quickly and requires minimal scrubbing. Users appreciate its convenient spray format and ability to cut through tough stains. It is ideal for both standard and self-cleaning ovens, making it versatile. -
Mr. Muscle Oven Cleaner:
Mr. Muscle Oven Cleaner offers strong cleaning power with a foam application. The foam clings to vertical surfaces and penetrates tough grime. Many users find it effective for cleaning ovens, grills, and other kitchen appliances. It has a pleasant scent that leaves the kitchen smelling fresh post-cleaning. However, some users caution against prolonged exposure to the cleaner due to strong chemicals. -
Domestos Oven Cleaner:
Domestos Oven Cleaner is known for its disinfecting properties alongside its cleaning capabilities. It targets both grease and bacteria, making it suitable for households seeking sanitation in their kitchen. Users report effective results but highlight the importance of following safety instructions due to the powerful chemical composition. -
Oven Pride:
Oven Pride is a complete cleaning kit that includes a bag for soiled oven racks. The cleaning solution is safe for all oven types and is known for its ease of use. Users appreciate the convenience of the kit, enabling thorough cleaning with minimal effort. Many highlight its effectiveness against stubborn stains and baked-on grease, making it a favored option among busy households. -
4EVA Clean Oven Cleaner:
4EVA Clean Oven Cleaner stands out due to its focus on biodegradable ingredients. Users who prefer eco-friendly products find it appealing. While it may not be as strong as other chemical cleaners, it offers a gentler alternative for regular maintenance. Customers report satisfactory results with routine use, especially to keep ovens in good condition between deep cleans.
Each of these products presents a range of options based on user preferences for effectiveness, safety, and environmental impact.
Which Features Make an Oven Cleaner Effective and Safe?
Effective oven cleaners possess specific features that enhance their cleaning capabilities while ensuring user safety.
- Non-Toxic Ingredients
- High Foam Action
- Effective Grease Cutting
- Odor Neutralization
- Safe for Various Oven Types
- Easy Application
- Rapid Action Formula
- Biodegradable Components
The features listed above cover a range of important factors that impact the effectiveness and safety of oven cleaners.
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Non-Toxic Ingredients:
Non-toxic ingredients ensure oven cleaners are safe for use around food and people. Cleaners with natural or plant-based compounds reduce the risk of chemical burns or health hazards. According to a study by the American Chemical Society in 2020, many commercial cleaners contain harmful substances that can irritate skin and respiratory systems. Brands that prioritize safety often use ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or citric acid. -
High Foam Action:
High foam action helps the cleaner adhere to vertical surfaces, maximizing cleanliness. Foaming agents allow grease and grime to lift off surfaces effectively. A study published in the Journal of Surfactants and Detergents indicated that products with superior foam qualities can enhance the cleaning process. Many consumers find that foaming cleaners simplify scrubbing and improve coverage. -
Effective Grease Cutting:
Effective grease-cutting agents remove stubborn food residues and burnt-on grease. Cleaners containing sodium hydroxide or a similar component break down stubborn residues more effectively. According to Consumer Reports (2021), oven cleaners with strong degreasers are preferred by users dealing with heavily soiled ovens. -
Odor Neutralization:
Odor neutralization systems eliminate unpleasant smells from burnt food or cleaning agents. Products that contain odor-absorbing compounds, such as activated charcoal, enhance user experience. Research from the Environmental Protection Agency emphasizes the importance of pleasant scents, as strong chemical odors can deter consumers from using a product. -
Safe for Various Oven Types:
Oven cleaners should be versatile enough to work on different types of ovens, including self-cleaning and conventional models. Cleaners that specify proper use for these types prevent damage and ensure a thorough clean. The Appliance Standards Awareness Project recommends verifying compatibility with specific oven surfaces before use. -
Easy Application:
Ease of application allows users to clean efficiently without spending excessive time. Products that come in spray bottles enhance usability, allowing for targeted application. Findings from a usability study defined easy-to-use products as those requiring minimal effort and time. -
Rapid Action Formula:
Rapid action formulas cut down cleaning time, allowing users to see results quickly. Cleaners that work in under 10 minutes are popular among busy households. A market analysis by Mintel suggests that time-saving features significantly influence consumer purchasing decisions. -
Biodegradable Components:
Biodegradable components reduce environmental impact. Eco-friendly cleaners break down more easily and contribute less to pollution. According to the Global Reporting Initiative, consumers increasingly prefer brands that engage in sustainable practices and offer environmentally safe products.
How Can You Safely Apply Heavy-Duty Oven Cleaners to Avoid Damage?
To safely apply heavy-duty oven cleaners and avoid damage, wear protective gear, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and ensure proper ventilation.
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Wear Protective Gear: Always use gloves and eye protection. Heavy-duty oven cleaners often contain caustic chemicals that can irritate skin and eyes. Gloves prevent contact with these substances. Goggles protect your eyes from splashes.
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Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Every product has specific guidelines. Read the label carefully. It indicates how to apply the cleaner, the recommended contact time, and any safety precautions. Ignoring these instructions can lead to damage or ineffective cleaning.
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Ensure Proper Ventilation: Heavy-duty oven cleaners release strong fumes. Open windows or use fans to circulate air. Good ventilation reduces inhalation of potentially harmful vapors. This is crucial for both your health and safety.
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Avoid Mixing Cleaners: Do not mix oven cleaners with other cleaning products. Combining chemicals can create toxic fumes. Stick to one product at a time for safe application.
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Test on a Small Area: Before applying the cleaner to the entire oven, test it on a small, inconspicuous area. This helps to check for any adverse reactions with the oven’s surface.
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Wait Appropriate Time: Allow the cleaner to sit for the recommended time. This ensures effective cleaning without causing damage. Rinse thoroughly after the designated time to prevent residue from harming the oven’s surface.
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Keep Away from Heating Elements: Apply the cleaner away from heating elements and electrical components. Avoid contact with these parts to prevent potential damage or hazardous situations.
By following these steps, you can effectively use heavy-duty oven cleaners while minimizing the risk of damage to your oven.
What Natural Ingredients Can You Use to Create DIY Oven Cleaners?
The best natural ingredients to create DIY oven cleaners include baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and salt.
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Salt
These ingredients are commonly used for their effectiveness in eliminating grease and grime. However, some people may question the efficacy of natural cleaners compared to commercial products. Others highlight the benefits of natural ingredients being less harsh on surfaces and safer for households with children and pets.
Baking soda is a versatile natural ingredient that acts as a mild abrasive. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that can tackle tough stains and baked-on food. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps to break down grease, making it easier to clean surfaces. According to the American Cleaning Institute, baking soda can also neutralize odors, making it a key ingredient in clean-ups.
Vinegar serves as both a cleaning agent and a deodorizer due to its acidic properties. When combined with baking soda, it creates a fizzy reaction that can lift grime and stains. Studies published by the Journal of Environmental Health reveal that vinegar can effectively kill bacteria and microbes, further enhancing its cleaning power in the kitchen.
Lemon juice is another natural cleaning agent known for its acidity and fresh scent. It can cut through grease and provide a natural shine. Research from the International Journal of Chemical Sciences shows that lemon juice’s citric acid can dissolve mineral deposits and cuts through oily residues.
Salt is an effective scrubbing agent that can help remove stubborn stains. Its coarse texture allows for gentle abrasion when mixed with other ingredients. A study in the Journal of Food Science explains that salt can absorb moisture, which helps in removing excess grease and food particles.
Using these natural ingredients for oven cleaning results in a safer, eco-friendly solution that many households can easily prepare and use.
What Safety Precautions Should You Observe When Cleaning Your Oven?
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When cleaning your oven, you should observe several safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.
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The main safety precautions to observe when cleaning your oven include:
– Unplug the oven or turn off the power
– Allow the oven to cool completely
– Use appropriate cleaning agents
– Wear protective gear
– Ventilate the area
– Avoid abrasive tools
– Follow manufacturer instructions -
Unplug the Oven or Turn Off the Power: Unplugging the oven or turning off the power is crucial for ensuring safety during cleaning. This avoids electrical shocks. According to appliance safety guidelines, energy disconnection prevents malfunctions. It’s a simple step that can prevent serious injuries, especially if your cleaning involves spraying liquids.
Allow the Oven to Cool Completely: Allowing your oven to cool completely before cleaning is essential. A hot oven can cause burns. The National Fire Protection Association states that burns are common injuries from hot kitchen appliances. Ensuring the oven is cool helps you work safely and reduces the risk of accidents.
Use Appropriate Cleaning Agents: Using appropriate cleaning agents is vital for both effectiveness and safety. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the oven’s interior. Many manufacturers recommend gentle cleaners or natural solutions. For example, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda is an effective natural cleaner. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe products.
Wear Protective Gear: Wearing protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, enhances safety during cleaning. Gloves protect your hands from harsh chemicals, while goggles protect your eyes from splashes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that protective gear is important when handling cleaning agents.
Ventilate the Area: Ventilating the area is necessary when using cleaning agents, particularly those with strong fumes. Open windows or use exhaust fans to ensure fresh air circulation. Lack of ventilation can lead to inhaling harmful chemicals, which can cause respiratory issues, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Avoid Abrasive Tools: Avoiding abrasive tools helps prevent scratches and damage to the oven’s surfaces. Scratched surfaces can harbor bacteria and make cleaning more difficult. Use soft sponges or cloths instead. The Appliance Industry Association notes that using non-abrasive tools extends the lifespan of the appliance.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Following manufacturer instructions for cleaning is essential for maintaining your oven. Each model may have specific guidelines regarding cleaning methods and products. Ignoring these instructions can void warranties and damage the appliance. The manufacturer’s user manual often contains best practices for safe cleaning methods.
How Can Regular Maintenance Minimize the Need for Deep Cleaning?
Regular maintenance reduces the need for deep cleaning by preventing the accumulation of dirt, grime, and allergens, ultimately making cleaning easier and more efficient.
Regular cleaning helps prevent dirt buildup. When surfaces are consistently cleaned, dirt and debris don’t have the chance to accumulate significantly. This routine cleaning can be done daily or weekly, depending on the area. A study by the American Cleaning Institute (2019) noted that regular cleaning can cut down on deep cleaning tasks by up to 50%.
Consistent maintenance reduces allergens. Regular dusting and vacuuming help limit the presence of allergens in the environment. This includes dust mites, pet dander, and mold. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (2020), keeping surfaces clean may reduce allergy symptoms by 40% in sensitive individuals.
Routine inspections can identify issues early. Regular maintenance allows for quick identification of stains, damages, or areas needing special attention before they become more extensive problems. Preventative measures can be taken immediately, thus avoiding more extensive cleaning later.
Establishing a maintenance schedule provides clear expectations. When a routine is in place, everyone knows what cleaning tasks need to be completed and when. This organized approach decreases the likelihood of large messes forming. The Cleaning Industry Research Institute (2021) highlights that structured cleaning schedules can enhance compliance, leading to a cleaner environment with less effort.
Using proper cleaning tools regularly enhances effectiveness. Regular cleaning allows the use of tools like microfiber cloths, which knock down dirt and remove it effectively. According to a study in the Journal of Environmental Health (2018), using appropriate cleaning tools can increase cleaning effectiveness by 60%.
Overall, regular maintenance creates a cleaner environment, reduces the need for intensive cleaning, and promotes health and hygiene.
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