CPSC recall of Cabot deck cleaner

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently issued a recall of about 24,000 containers of Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner #3502 because of an inhalation and fire hazard.

The cleaner, made by Cabot Stains of Newburyport, Massachusetts, contains an ingredient that can react with metal foil residue on the packaging, releasing heat and chlorine gas, according to the CPSC.

If you bought any of the cleaner, which comes in a 2-pound plastic container (shown), do not use it and return the product to the store where you bought it for a refund. If the container appears misshapen or feels hot, call Cabot (877-755-3336, 24 hours a day) to arrange for the safe handling of the cleaner.

For more details on the recall, read the CPSC’s notice or download a PDF from the Cabot Web site.

Essential information: Look for our report on deck materials and deck stains in the July 2008 issue of Consumer Reports. And follow these tips to get a great-looking deck.