In fact, I would probably need to quit cleaning if I could no longer buy or use this product. So, when I did a search online and found a "negative" article concerning their safety, I actually got a lump in my throat! I found a claim on http://www.snopes.com/ (the rumor debunking sight) that said Mr. Clean Magic Erasers contained formaldehyde and were being banned from stores. Given this was posted in 2006 (4 years ago), and the rumor status said FALSE ---I relaxed and took a deep breath. That was too close!
The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is not marketed by Proctor & Gamble, Inc. as a "green" cleaning alternative, but it is not considered a toxic substance either (to date). The only warning required on the packaging pertains to possible ingestion of the sponge by young children or animals, because it could cause an intestinal blockage.
Ok, so what is in these amazing little sponges that make them "magic?" I looked on another site, http://www.householdporducts.nlm.nih.gov/ and found that the active cleaning ingredient formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer (I know, it isn't vinegar!) made up only 5% of the sponge. The base is basically 85% Plaster of Paris; another 5% is Crystalline silica. It is in the making of the material that the real "magic" happens.
Wikipedia provided (uncited) information that stated the melamine foam is manufactured in Germany by BASF under the name "Basotect." It has been used for 20 years (so nothing new) for pipes, ductwork, and soundproofing material. The open cell foam is microporous and the surface is very hard (feels soft to me), but it acts like an extremely fine sand paper. It is similar in structure to styrofoam, but the bubbles interconnect into a maze of "fibreglass-like strands." The only caution I have found to keep in mind when using this sponge, is that some surfaces can get "scratched" or "scuffed" looking if you rub too agressively. ( Also, don't use it on skin. How do I know? Just use orange oil to remove fake tattoos instead...trust me, you will thank me for that one!) Anyway, "plastic glass" such as the front of a microwave is a good example. ( A very light touch can be tolerated, but don't apply much pressure.) Also, certain counter top finishes could get scratched trying to remove a very set in stain. Otherwise, the cleaning possiblilities are infinite.
Proctor & Gamble, Inc. offers several types of Magic Erasers. My favorite is the "extra strength" version. It won't shred so quickly and is superior in cleaning ability. There is a 50 cent coupon in each box and I just found a box of two at Blain's Farm & Fleet for $2.50. So, anyone can buy these for about $1 each. They last through many uses. Just rewet and use until there are small pieces left to pitch.
The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser combined with the vinegar/water cleaner is unstoppable on a very soap scummy shower. So, if Proctor & Gamble discontinues this product, I hope it's because they have something even better to replace it with. That will be hard to imagine! Until then, these will stay on my pedestal and in my caddy every day!
