Available in 30 countries worldwide, K2r has been lifting some of the toughest stains for 40 years. But how did this amazing line of products come about and what is it named for?

A Man and A Mountain
In 1954,an Italian chemist named Vanoni was working to develop a product that would provide a simple and effective solution for removing stains from textiles.

At the same time in Pakistan, Achille Compagnoni and Lino Lacedelli became the first men to successfully reach the 8,611-meter summit of the K2 Mountain – the second highest mountain in the world.

Meanwhile, back in Italy, Vanoni was still testing formulas. Each of his test developments, like most scientific results of the time, was named in alphabetical order. When Vanoni was satisfied with his 18th formula, or formula “r,” he declared his new invention ready for full-scale use as a widely effective spot and stain remover.

But now Vanoni had to come up with an unmistakable name for his invention. It dawned upon him to combine the exceptional achievement of the mountaineers on K2 mountain with the unique qualities of his formula “r.” Thus the trade name K2r was born.

And the rest – as they say – is history.