Let the pH scale guide you to an efficient cleaning

The pH value of a cleaning detergent expresses the detergents’ acidic and alkaline characteristics on a scale from 0 to 14. It is important to understand the meaning of the pH value because it helps in choosing the right detergent for a specific cleaning task. A low pH value expresses that the product has an acidic composition, which makes it effective at removing minerals such as lime and rust. Products with a high pH value are on the other hand efficient for removing grease and grime due to its alkaline composition.

How to read the pH scale 

The pH scale is unique because the neutral point is not 0, but in the middle of the scale at 7. In addition, the distance between the numbers represents exponential growth.  

Every time the pH value changes, i.e. from 8 to 9, the detergent becomes 10 times more aggressive. If the pH value rises by two whole numbers, i.e. from 8 to 10, the detergent’s strength rises by 10 x 10 = 100, becoming 100 times more efficient at removing grease and protein.

For every number below 7, the detergent becomes 10 times more acidic, and therefore more efficient at removing limescale and rust.

 

Red – pH-value 1-5

Products with an acidic pH value are effective against limescale and rust deposits.

Green – pH-value 6-9

Products with a neutral pH value are used for light cleaning of inventory, kitchens, dishes, and painted surfaces.

Blue – pH-value 10-14

Products with an alkaline pH value are efficient for removal of grease.