The Chemistry Of Cleaning

March 1, 2022 - S SAN FRANCISCO, CA - As everyone knows, cleaning involves the use of chemicals and physical processes to remove soil, stains, and other unwanted substances from surfaces. The chemistry of cleaning involves understanding the properties and interactions of different types of chemicals and how they can be used to effectively clean a variety of surfaces and materials.

The three basic types of chemicals used in cleaning are:

1. Surfactants: These are compounds that reduce the surface tension of liquids, allowing them to penetrate and remove dirt and stains more easily. Surfactants are found in many cleaning products, including detergents, soaps, and degreasers.

2. Acids: Acids are used to dissolve and remove inorganic materials like mineral deposits, rust stains, and other types of hard-to-remove buildup. Common acid-based cleaning products include vinegar, lemon juice, and some commercial toilet bowl cleaners like MARVEL Toilet Bowl & Urinal Cleaner.

3. Alkaline or base cleaners: These are cleaning agents that have a pH greater than 7, which helps to break down and remove grease, oils, and other types of organic substances. Examples of alkaline cleaners include oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and degreasers. An example of a very effective cleaner and degreaser would be our BLU WIZ Industrial Strength Cleaner & Degreaser, which is a highly efficient surfactant and alkaline cleaner combined!

When a cleaning product is applied to a surface, the chemicals in the product interact with the dirt or stain on the surface in several ways. Surfactants work by breaking down the bonds between dirt particles and the surface, allowing them to be lifted and removed. Acids dissolve mineral deposits and other hard-to-remove substances by breaking them down into smaller, more soluble compounds. Alkaline cleaners work by emulsifying grease and oils, which allows them to be washed away more easily.

In addition to the chemicals used in cleaning products, other factors can affect the effectiveness of cleaning, such as temperature, agitation, and contact time. For example, hot water can help to dissolve grease and oils more effectively, while scrubbing or agitation can help to dislodge and remove dirt and stains. Contact time, or the amount of time that a cleaning product is allowed to sit on a surface, is also important, as it allows the chemicals in the product to work more effectively.

Overall, understanding the chemistry of cleaning is essential for selecting the right cleaning products, using them effectively, and achieving the best possible results. By following these tips (and by consulting the products available at https://www.blueribbonsupply.com), we can help you create and maintain a healthy, happy and inspiring place to work, visit, learn and heal. Contact Blue Ribbon Supply today for any products and/or advice you might need.