For best results, match cleaning agents, surfaces

There are hundreds of cleaning agents on the market made to aid in the removal of specific types of stains. To get a handle on what type will work best, keep these facts in mind: Abrasives physically scratch off dirt. They include baking soda, salt, powdered cleansers and steel wool. Although immediately effective, abrasives can harm glossy surfaces and leave scratches, so make sure what you are cleaning can withstand their treatment.
Acids are used to remove tarnish and corrosion from metals and to remove water deposits. They include lemon juice, vinegar and strong acid cleaners such as toilet bowl cleaner. Acids should not be used on porcelain surfaces. Be careful when using acid cleaners, since they can be harmful to skin and eyes.
Alkalis remove and suspend heavy soil and grease so it can be rinsed away. They include ammonia, Borax and cleaners with trisodium phosphate. Bleaches oxidize and remove stains and will lighten the color of wood and fabric. They include hydrogen peroxide and chlorine bleach.
Never mix bleaching agents with ammonia. This produces a toxic gas. Don't use bleaches on aluminum or porcelain. Bleaches will darken aluminum and dull porcelain.
Detergents are alkaline or neutral and are made to dissolve dirt and grease. They include dishwashing liquids and laundry soaps.
Solvents dissolve dirt. Water is the universal solvent because it will dissolve most soils but will not dissolve oil.
Organic solvents are made to dissolve greasy soil or stains. They include acetone, denatured alcohol, kerosene and turpentine. Most organic solvents are combustible.