Cleaning agents are substances like liquids, powders, sprays, or granules, that are used to remove dirt, dust, stains, bad smells, and clutter on surfaces. Purposes of cleaning agents include health, beauty, absence of offensive odour and avoiding the spreading of dirt and contaminants to oneself and others. Some cleaning agents can kill bacteria and clean at the same time. Cleaning agents are normally water solutions that might be acidic, alkaline, or neutral, depending on the use. Cleaning agents may also be solvent-based or solvent-containing and are then called degreasers.