The science of cleaning Use the power of chemistry to clean smarter, easier, and safer-with solutions for every kind of dirt

Italian author Bressanini's treatise on cleaning--and dirt--ranks highly in his country and soon will among North American readers too in this first English translation. Though Bressanini is a professor of chemistry at the University of Insubria, he offers us science at its most elementary, with easy-to-understand explanations of, for instance, surfactants and what they do. Sidebars spotlight specific brand products and their workings (though a number of these might not be available worldwide). He unpacks common myths, such as whether to add water to dishwashing detergent, how often to launder clothes, and what baking soda and vinegar do together (nothing useful). Charts show the difference between, say, hard and soft soap, and introduce new words such as sebum (which elucidates why some clothes scum might be difficult to get rid of). Accompanied by bright illustrations by Beth Bugler, this is, in short, a great reference for anyone stumped by reluctant-to-leave dirt--and far cheaper than hiring a professional.

According to chemist Bressanini (science and high technology, Univ. of Insubria, Como, Italy), the number and variety of cleaning products on the market has increased in recent years, and consumers now have an almost overwhelming number of choices. Given such a selection, it can be challenging to balance effectiveness, cost, and environmental impact. To that point, Bressanini begins by defining kinds of "clean" (dust-free, sanitized), types of dirt (water-soluble, solid, oily), and different cleaning solvents. Bugler's bright illustrations, colorful charts, boxed factoids, and occasional warnings enhance chapters that cover limescale, soap, laundry, dishes, and baking soda. VERDICT A fascinating in-depth read that may frustrate readers seeking immediate stain-removal advice but pairs well with Bonnie Garmus's popular novel Lessons in Chemistry.