When surfaces need to be cleaned, many consumers might not recognize that cleaners may be neutral (water), alkaline (basic), or acidic. Cleaning chemical supplier Bell Chem is here to unravel the mystery of why some surfaces should be cleaned with an acidic cleaner while others need the power of alkalinity.

Alkaline cleaners

On one end of the pH scale are the alkaline cleaners. With a pH exceeding 7 on a scale of 0-14, alkaline cleaners excel in dissolving protein-based deposits such as animal fat, grease, and oil. These products contain hydroxide, with formulas such as potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide. Soil is generally acidic, which means an alkaline cleaner breaks up soil deposits to be quickly rinsed away.

Metal cleaning is important as an industry, but is also highly necessary for all industrial machinery. Alkaline salts such as calcium hydroxide, potassium chloride, and sodium carbonate and bicarbonate are excellent metal cleaning specialists. 

Acidic cleaners 

Acidic cleaners are meant for heavy-duty cleaning and many require personal protective gear while handling. Knowing that, it is understandable that acids are marvels at removing inorganic materials such as lime, rust, scale, and soap scum. Examples of acidic cleaners often contain the word “acid” to ensure your product is low on the pH scale, such as hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, and phosphoric acid. 

Hot water tanks and other interior surfaces that contain heated water often have lime build ups combated with acidic cleaners such as acetic acid or citric acid. Water purification causes excess deposition of chemicals that muriatic acid can remove. Shining metals such as aluminum are significantly eased with hydrochloric acid. Phosphoric acid quickly removes rust from surfaces. If your industry focuses on concrete, hydrogen chloride removes concrete from metal surfaces, but must be used with caution.

Remember, the job of cleaners – both alkaline and acidic – is to remove debris from surfaces. It is best to use a detergent and/or disinfectant on working surfaces coming into contact with food after cleaners are applied and rinsed.

Bell Chem, cleaning chemical supplier, is based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including a wide array of alkaline cleaners. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355).