pH Levels of Common Household Cleaners
When cleaning your home, it’s important to choose the right cleaner for the job. Some cleaners are better at removing certain types of stains than others. The pH level of a cleaner is a measure of how acidic or alkaline it is. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic and 14 being the most alkaline. A pH of 7 is neutral.
Acidic cleaners are best for removing alkaline stains, such as calcium deposits, rust, and other minerals. Alkaline cleaners are best for removing acidic stains, such as dirt, grease, proteins, and oils.
Here is a list of common household cleaners and their pH levels:
Bleach is a highly alkaline cleaner with a pH of 11 to 13. It is effective at removing stains and whitening white fabrics. However, bleach can be corrosive and should not be used on many surfaces, such as stone, wood, stainless steel, most metals, and dyed fabrics.
Ammonia is another highly alkaline cleaner with a pH of 11 to 12. It is effective at removing tough dirt and grime. However, ammonia can also be corrosive and should not be mixed with other cleaners, as this can create toxic gases.
Oven cleaner is a highly alkaline cleaner with a pH of 11 to 13. It is effective at removing tough grease and grime from ovens. However, oven cleaner can also be corrosive and should be used with caution.
Tub and tile cleaner is a highly alkaline cleaner with a pH of 11 to 13. It is effective at removing dirt and grime from tubs and tiles. However, tub and tile cleaner can also be corrosive and should be used with caution.
Window and glass cleaner can have a pH ranging from 3 to 10, depending on the ingredients. Glass cleaners made with vinegar can be as low as pH 3.0, while glass cleaners with ammonia can be as high as pH 10.0.
Borax is an alkaline cleaner with a pH of 10. It is effective at breaking down oils and organic dirt. Borax is often used as a laundry booster.
Baking soda is a mildly alkaline cleaner with a pH of 8 to 9. It is effective at removing grease and dirt. Baking soda is a good option for general cleaning around the home.
Dish soap is a neutral cleaner with a pH of 7 to 10. It is effective at removing dirt and grease from dishes. Dish soap is also gentle on hands and can be used on a variety of surfaces.
Stone cleaner has a pH of around 7. Stone cleaners are designed to be neutral so that they do not damage stone surfaces. However, some stone cleaners can have a pH of up to 10.
Hydrogen peroxide has a pH of 3 to 6. It is effective as an oxidizer, bleaching agent, and antiseptic.
Vinegar is an acidic cleaner with a pH of 3. It is effective at removing mineral deposits. However, vinegar can also damage some surfaces, such as stone.
Lemon juice is an acidic cleaner with a pH of 3. It is effective at cleaning copper pots and drains. However, lemon juice can also damage some surfaces, such as stone.
Toilet bowl cleaner is an acidic cleaner with a pH of 1 to 3. It is effective at removing minerals and other non-organic substances from toilet bowls. However, toilet bowl cleaner can also be corrosive and should be used with caution.
How to Choose the Right Cleaner for the Job
When choosing a cleaner, it is important to consider the type of stain that needs to be removed and the surface that needs to be cleaned. Acidic cleaners are best for removing alkaline stains, while alkaline cleaners are best for removing acidic stains.
It is also important to consider the pH level of the cleaner. Cleaners with a high pH can be corrosive and should be used with caution. Cleaners with a neutral pH are gentler and can be used on a variety of surfaces.
How to Use Cleaners Safely
When using cleaners, it is important to follow the directions on the label. Cleaners can be corrosive and should be used with caution. Always wear gloves and ventilate the area when using cleaners.
Why is it Important to Know the pH Level of Cleaners?
The pH level of a cleaner is important because it can affect the effectiveness of the cleaner and the safety of the user. Cleaners with a high pH can be corrosive and should be used with caution. Cleaners with a neutral pH are gentler and can be used on a variety of surfaces.
