The excessive use of chemical products such as caustic soda, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, enzymes, acetic acid, etc., may damage the weave of the elements, of the garments themselves, or alter the finish of the metal parts of the zippers, causing oxidation.

For the enzymatic washing of garments with burnished elements, in which the enzymes are activated with acetic acid, it is recommended to use a metal protectant to avoid the deterioration of the burnishing.

For enzymatic washing in which the enzymes are activated with salt, deposits of powder (salts) may be left on the elements that make it difficult to slide them after drying. It is recommended that a final rinse be performed with acetic acid (0.5%-1%) to eliminate and remove these powder deposits.

For degumming with caustic soda or enzymes in garments that will then be dyed with reactive, direct, and sulfur colorants, it is recommended to use a metal protectant. When choosing the protectant, make sure it does not sequester the metals of the dye, in order to avoid staining the weaves.

When bleaching garments with sodium hypochlorite, make sure to work with a pH of 10 to 11 to avoid the degradation of the cotton fibers in the garments and the elements. It is additionally recommended to perform an antichlorine treatment following bleaching.

For the simultaneous scouring and bleaching of garments using caustic soda and hydrogen peroxide, it is recommended to use the metal protectant before the scouring with soda, and to use a peroxide stabilizer to moderate exothermal reactions that may burn the fabric of the garments and elements.

The doses in each case depend on the type of fabric (Pima cotton, carded, grammage, etc.) and the reagents to be used. It is recommended to inquire with the respective suppliers regarding the best use thereof.