Abstract: A cleaning composition for the removal of soils containing free or combined organic acids comprising (A) at least 1% by weight of a substance selected from the group consisting of (1) at least one alkali metal salt of a weak organic acid, said salt melting at elevated temperatures, preferably below about 550.degree. F and said weak organic acid constituent part being volatile and/or decomposing at said elevated temperatures on contact with said soil or (2) mixtures of salts thereof, the mixtures having melting points lower than the cleaning temperature, preferably less than 550.degree. F; and (B) up to 99% by weight of a carrier. The novel method of cleaning soils containing free or combined organic acids comprises applying the said salt or salts of weak organic acid to said soil, heating the salt(s) and soil above the melting point of the said salt(s) and then removing the residue.