There are three kinds of bluing now on the market. The action and disadvantages of Prussian Blue have been described. It gives a better color, however, than either of the other two . A second kind is Ultramarine blue. This, also, is an iron compound, but it does not decompose with alkali. It is what we often buy as the "ball bluing," and is insoluble in water. Water, however, causes it to break up into very minute particles which spread through the liquid and give it a blue color. The water must be kept stirred, and one must be careful in using it that the clothes do not get streaked. The balls of bluing should be tied up in a cloth and washed from this into the water. It is well to prepare it in a separate dish and then add it to the water. Indigo blue is easier to use, but does not give so good a color. Preparations of indigo for laundry work may still be obtained.

Here is a method of cleansing knitted worsted goods which was strongly recommended. Wash the garment in gasoline, and allow it to dry. Then shake it well in a tight box with flour or fuller's earth, allowing it to remain there an hour or more. The powder will absorb any greasy or oily substance, and later may be shaken out. In using gasoline for cleaning in this way, have a generous amount, and allow for rinsing the articles well. The gasoline may be used more than once, for the dirt which it contains will settle to the bottom of the vessel in which it stands and the clear liquid may be poured off. Use it out of doors, or in a strong outward draft, that the inflammable vapors it produces may blow harmlessly away.

To many people, the word "chemical" always means an acid. Now, acids and alkalis differ so much in their properties, that it is wise to be able to distinguish between them. Injuries due to the use of one may frequently be remedied by prompt use of the other. Alkalis are especially useful in laundry work because of their action upon grease of most kinds. Some of the salts formed with the alkali metals are alkaline in reaction. Among these are washing and cooking soda.