The effectiveness of cleaning products often depends on their pH levels. Knowing how pH works can help you choose the right products for various tasks, ensuring both efficacy and safety.
What is pH?
pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline. This scale influences a product’s ability to dissolve dirt, grease, and grime.
- Acidic Cleaners (pH 0-6): Ideal for removing mineral deposits, rust stains, and hard water deposits. They are commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens for tiles, glass, and some metal surfaces.
Product Recommendation : Kemsol Phosclean
- Neutral Cleaners (pH 7): Most all-purpose cleaners fall into this category, suitable for general cleaning tasks and safe on most surfaces, including floors, countertops, and walls.
Product Recommendation: Kemsol K8
- Alkaline Cleaners (pH 8-14): These are effective for cutting through grease, oils, and organic stains, commonly used in kitchens for ovens, stovetops, and grills.
Some alkaline cleaners, for example Kemsol Shower Power with pH level 11, are excellent for bathrooms and scaling too. It’s always best to consult with an expert that can advise which product is best for which application.
Choosing the Right pH for Cleaning
For bathroom cleaning, use acidic cleaners to remove soap scum, hard water stains, and mildew. Products like toilet bowl cleaners often have a low pH. In the kitchen, alkaline cleaners are excellent for tackling grease and food stains. However, for general surfaces, a neutral pH cleaner is preferred to avoid damaging surfaces or leaving residues. For floor cleaning, neutral pH cleaners are best to prevent damage to floor finishes and ensure a residue-free clean.
Safety Considerations
Never use acid and alkaline cleaning products together. Chlorine-based products like bleach should never be used together with acid cleaners.
When using cleaning products, always wear appropriate PPE and ensure good ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes. Follow product label instructions for proper usage and dilution to prevent damage to surfaces and reduce health risks.
Understanding the pH levels of cleaning products helps in selecting the right cleaner for specific tasks, ensuring effective and safe cleaning. By choosing the appropriate product based on its pH, you can maintain cleanliness and prolong the life of your surfaces and appliances.
For detailed pH information on our products, scan the QR code on the label to access the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or visit our website to view the product information sheet.
