pH Value in Cleaning Products: Safe and Effective Use

pH Value in Cleaning Products

What is pH Value?

pH is a measurement that determines whether a solution is acidic, neutral or basic (alkaline). pH is measured on a scale from 0 to 14:

• pH 7: Neutral (like water).
• pH 0-6: Acidic (e.g. lemon juice, vinegar).
• pH 8-14: Basic (alkaline, e.g. soap and ammonia solutions).

The pH of cleaning products is a factor that affects the formulation of the product and plays an important role in the effectiveness and safety of the product during use. The pH value of cleaning products is important for the effective removal of dirt and deposits in the environment or product being cleaned. Detergents are preferred as acidic, alkaline or neutral according to the situations to be used.

Classification of Cleaning Products According to pH Values

• Cleaning products with a pH between 0 and 3 are considered strongly acidic. They are used to remove calcium deposits and rust particles, such as brake dust, from cement or concrete.
• Cleaning products with a pH between 3 and 6 are considered slightly acidic.
• Cleaning products with a pH between 6 and 8 are considered neutral. Used in mild car shampoos.
• Cleaning products with a pH between 8 and 11 are considered slightly alkaline. Used in cleaning products that dissolve road dirt or grease well.
• Cleaning products with a pH between 8 and 11 are considered strongly alkaline. Used in cleaning products that remove oil, grease and road dirt.

Detergent should be selected according to the area to be used and the dirt and deposits to be cleaned and the pH value should be taken into consideration.

Importance of pH Value in Cleaning Products

1. Effective Cleaning: Some contaminants or stains can be cleaned more effectively with acidic or basic solutions. For example, oily stains are generally better dissolved with basic solutions, while mineral deposits are more easily removed with acidic solutions.
2. Skin and Respiratory Safety: Acidic or overly basic cleaning products can cause skin irritation. pH value is a critical factor to ensure product compatibility with the skin and user safety.
3. Product Performance: The effectiveness of cleaning products can vary depending on the pH level. Incorrect pH levels can reduce the effectiveness of the product or render it completely ineffective.
4. Material Compatibility: Some surfaces, for example natural stones or wood, are sensitive to certain pH levels. The wrong pH value can damage these surfaces or lead to discoloration.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of pH Value in Cleaning Products. We also provide services in Irritation Testing.

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