The name Spray 'n Wash denotes the way this product is used. Consumers simply spray a garment soiled with a tough stain and throw it in the wash.

Herbert H. Dow founded the Dow Chemical Company with the discovery of salt deposits in northern Michigan, expanding into the research, development, and manufacture of industrial chemicals. Dow started manufacturing consumer products in 1953 with the introduction of Saran Wrap, followed by Handi-Wrap in 1960, Dow Oven Cleaner in 1963, Scrubbing Bubbles in 1966, and the Ziploc Storage Bag and Spray 'n Wash in 1970.

In 1970, Spray 'n Wash was introduced in an aerosol can, and in 1974, was made available in liquid form.

Spray 'n Wash Stain Stick was introduced in 1990.

Spray 'n Wash is non-flammable and biodegradable, has an environmentally safe propellant, and does not contain phosphorus or chlorinated solvents.

In 1995, Spray 'n Wash was reintroduced to the marketplace with new ergonomically designed bottles, more effective formulations, and an improved trigger sprayer.

In 1994, Dow became the exclusive supplier of rigid Styrofoam brand insulation for Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization which has built over 30,000 homes with the help of the hard-working, low-income families who buy the homes. As of this writing, Habitat for Humanity ranks as the 17th largest home builder in the United States.

Since 1990, Dow, in partnership with Huntsman Chemical and the U.S. National Park Service, has brought recycling to seven national parks. In 1995, nearly two million pounds of aluminum, glass, and plastics were collected in the parks, reducing the solid waste sent to landfills.

In 1991, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the 33/50 program, challenging companies to voluntarily reduce emissions of seventeen chemical pollutants by 33 percent by 1992 and by 50 percent by 1995. By the end of 1993, Dow had achieved a 47 percent global reduction—cutting global emissions from over 4,500 tons every year to just under 2,500 tons per year.

Copyright © 2006 Joey Green. All rights reserved. "Spray 'n Wash" is a registered trademark of Reckitt Benckiser Inc.