At itsGLO Cleaning, customers often ask us whether cleaning products are acidic or alkaline. This is an important question because the type of cleaner you use can affect how effective it is for different cleaning tasks.
In this guide, we will explain the pH scale. We will also discuss the differences between acidic and alkaline products. Finally, we will help you choose the right product to keep your home clean.
Table of Contents:
Understanding the pH Scale
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, with a range from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, while numbers lower than 7 are acidic, and numbers higher than 7 are alkaline.
Knowing where a cleaning product falls on this scale helps you understand what types of dirt or grime it can best handle. For example, acidic cleaners are good for dissolving minerals, while high alkaline products are better for breaking down grease.
Acidic Cleaning Products
Acidic cleaners are best for cleaning tasks that involve mineral deposits, rust, or hard water stains. These products work by breaking down these tough substances, which alkaline products usually struggle with.
For example, white vinegar and lemon juice are both acidic and commonly used in natural cleaning. Vinegar is great for cleaning windows, removing calcium buildup in showers, and spring cleaning tasks around the house.
At itsGLO Cleaning, we use vinegar solutions in our Routine Cleaning service. They are safe, natural, and highly effective. If you see limescale on your faucets or shower heads, try using baking soda and white vinegar. This mixture creates a strong reaction that can break down tough buildup.
Examples of Acidic Cleaners You’ll Find in Stores
White vinegar – Ideal for cleaning glass, descaling kettles, and removing odors.
Oven cleaner – Many oven cleaners like easy off are acidic to break down baked-on grease and food.
Toilet bowl cleaners – These often use acidic formulas to remove rust and limescale.
Glass cleaner – Often contains vinegar or another acid to leave windows streak-free.
Lemon Polish – Often acidic due to the presence of citric acid or lemon oil, making it effective for cutting through grime and restoring shine to wood or metal surfaces.
When choosing an acidic cleaner, make sure to check the pH on the label if available, as this will help you determine its strength. Lower pH numbers mean stronger acids. These acids can help with stubborn stains, but they may be too harsh for delicate surfaces.
Basic Cleaning Solutions (Alkaline)
Alkaline cleaners are the go-to choice for tasks that involve breaking down grease, oils, and proteins. They are especially helpful for kitchen and bathroom cleaning because they effectively cut through grime and disinfect surfaces. At itsGLO Cleaning, we use alkaline products for deep cleaning services, such as cleaning stovetops, counters, and bathroom tiles.
Baking soda, a mild alkaline cleaner, is a great choice for scrubbing sinks, countertops, and even refreshing carpets. Another common high alkaline cleaner is dish soap, which is perfect for washing dishes, removing greasy residues, and maintaining a fresh, clean home.
Examples of Alkaline Cleaners You’ll Find in Stores
Baking soda – A versatile, natural cleaner perfect for scrubbing surfaces.
Dish soap – Mildly alkaline, ideal for everyday cleaning tasks in the kitchen.
All-purpose cleaners usually have a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. This makes them effective for general cleaning without being too harsh.
Laundry detergents – These are typically alkaline to help remove stains and odors.
Washing machine cleaners – These products often have alkaline properties to tackle soap scum and buildup inside the machine.
Alkaline products with a higher pH, such as ammonia-based cleaners, are stronger. They work well for tough jobs like cleaning ovens or removing grease. Always be cautious when using highly alkaline products as they can damage sensitive surfaces.
How to Choose the Right Cleaning Product
Choosing between acidic and alkaline cleaners depends on what you’re trying to clean. Here are some tips:
Grease on the stove: Use an alkaline cleaner, like dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner. It will break down the oils and make your stovetop shine.
Calcium buildup in the shower can be a problem. An acidic solution, like white vinegar or lemon juice, can help. It will dissolve hard water stains on glass and tiles.
Freshening up surfaces: For everyday use, a mild cleaner like baking soda or dish soap is safe and effective for keeping your home clean and odor-free.
Deep cleaning the oven: Stronger cleaners, like oven cleaner, are often a mix of alkaline and acidic components to break down baked-on grease and food.
For more specific cleaning tasks, such as cleaning your refrigerator or bathtub, visit our instructional guides. These detailed resources help you pick the right product for each task, ensuring you achieve the best results.
Table categorizing cleaning products by their pH levels
Brand Name | Acidic | Neutral | Basic |
Harpic Toilet Cleaner | ✔ | ||
CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover | ✔ | ||
Bar Keepers Friend | ✔ | ||
Windex Original Glass Cleaner | ✔ | ||
Tide Original Laundry Detergent | ✔ | ||
Dawn Platinum Dishwashing Liquid | ✔ | ||
Mr. Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner | ✔ | ||
Lysol Clean & Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner | ✔ | ||
Easy-Off Oven Cleaner | ✔ |
The Importance of a Cleaning Schedule
To keep your home clean and reduce the need for harsh chemicals, we recommend creating a cleaning schedule. Regular maintenance with mild, eco-friendly products can prevent the buildup of tough grime, meaning you’ll rarely need to use strong acids or alkalis. For example, wiping down your stovetop daily with dish soap and warm water can prevent the need for deep scrubbing later.
Conclusion
Whether acidic or basic, the right cleaning product can make all the difference. By understanding the nature of the products you use, you can achieve optimal results while keeping your environment safe and clean. For all your cleaning needs, from routine maintenance to deep cleaning, itsGLO Cleaning has you covered. Visit our Services page to explore our full range of offerings and find the perfect cleaning solution for your home or office.
At itsGLO Cleaning, we prioritize sustainability, choosing effective cleaning products that have minimal environmental impact. We carefully balance powerful cleaners with green alternatives like baking soda and white vinegar, ensuring that your home is both spotless and safe.