On April 2, 2008, Cabot Stains recalled about 24,000 Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner packages after receiving a report of the cleaner?s plastic container partially melting, emitting a chlorine odor. The recall was initiated because one of the components of the cleaner can react with the metal foil residue on the packaging, releasing heat and chlorine gas and posing a fire hazard and inhalation hazard to consumers.

The recall involves Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner #3502, a granular concentrate that is used to clean composite surfaces like decks, railings, fences and sidings after being mixed with water. It was sold in a two-pound plastic container with a label that reads, ?Cabot Composite Cleaner? and has number ?3502? on the bottom of the front of the label.

Home improvement centers and hardware stores nationwide sold the recalled Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner from February 2007 through February 2008 for about $20.

Consumers should immediately stop using the product and return it to the place of purchase for a refund. If the container looks deformed or feels hot to the touch, immediately contact Cabot at 1-877-755-3336 to arrange for safe handling of the product.

For more information, customers may also visit the company?s website.

Source: ?Cabot recalls composite deck cleaner due to inhalation and fire hazard,? US Consumer Product Safety Commission Release #08-237, April 2, 2008.