Joshua Wieder, Morten Köhler, and Benjamin Schul have long been part of a research team at Steinmühle. This year, they’ve taken a break from the “Jugend forscht” competition, in which they’ve participated regularly since 6th grade.
But these three students simply can’t go without doing some research. On Fridays in the “Open Lab,” they investigated the effectiveness of oxygen-based detergents, which are also used in laundry as stain removers or bleaches. The packaging often advertises stain removal starting at just 20°C. The team wanted to take a closer look at bold advertising claims such as “With active oxygen for brilliant whites” or “Chlorine-free laundry booster.”
For these investigations, they purchased various oxygen-based detergents and examined several criteria that might be important to consumers.
Among other things, they used a test apparatus they developed themselves to measure oxygen release at specific temperatures and the amount of oxygen produced for various stain-removing salts, since oxygen is responsible for the bleaching process.
This was followed by a practical test at various wash temperatures using red wine and ink stains. They also checked whether the stains bled onto the fabric surrounding the stain during washing (stain transfer). All results were compiled into tables to identify a test winner and, taking the purchase price into account, a best-value winner.
The result was somewhat predictable: not all advertising claims can be fulfilled. Among other things, the team was able to show that red wine stains are generally more difficult to remove. Only a single product ultimately received a “very good” rating from them. Another product, which received a “good” rating, was named the best value for money.
The results were documented in a report and submitted to the “Jugend Testet” competition. Through the end of May, the entries will be evaluated by a jury composed of experts from Stiftung Warentest and other reviewers from the media and consumer protection sectors. The judges will evaluate how the tests were conducted, how thoroughly the work was carried out and documented, and whether the test results are transparent.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed for the team!
