Removing stains from clothing can be as simple as using one kind of detergent or as complicated as using a couple different kinds of products. By staining different fabrics, students would be able to clean the fabrics after selecting different types of laundry detergents. They would see which detergents are best at stain removal. First, cut nine squares of fabric. Separate them into three groups of three squares. Next, choose three types of stains. Stain each of the squares until every group has three of the same stains. Soak each of the squares in three solutions of different detergents for 10 minutes. Then, wash all the squares and then record the results.
Greasy, messy food can be tough to remove once they have dried. Most dish detergents claim to be the only brand to remove tough, caked-on foods. Students can select different types of dish soap brands to examine which are best at removing left overs. First, students should select a messy, greasy food such as pizza, lasagna or stew to spread around three plates. Then, allow the layers to dry overnight. Next, select three brands of dish detergents. Fill three buckets with hot water. Add a tablespoon of one detergent into one bucket. Do the same with the other two detergents and buckets. Soak one plate in each of the buckets for about an hour before removing them. Then, record the results.
While washing your clothes in cold water may be more energy efficient, it may not be the most practical way to remove tough stains. Students can find out if detergents work just as well in cold water as they do in hot water. First, students should take two identical T-shirts and apply two of the same kinds of stains to the garments. Next, select a brand of laundry detergent that claims to remove tough, set-in stains. Wash the first shirt in hot water, then dry the garment while the second shirt is washed in cold water. Dry the second shirt and then record which temperature is best at cleaning the stains.
Most plants only need good soil, sunlight and clean water to grow and thrive. By adding dish detergent to plant water, students can see the effects unclean water has on plants. First, students should select four of the same kinds of potted flowers and three types of dish detergents. Next, mark three of the plants by corresponding detergents. The fourth is marked as the clean water plant. Assign a cup of water for each of the flowers and add a drop of detergent to the corresponding cup before watering the plants. Remember to water the clean water plant with only clean water. Do this for one week and then record your results.