When cleaning domestic spaces, many people experiment with various products, often overlooking usage guidelines. While using the wrong cleaner at home might lead to a costly repair or replacement, in the commercial cleaning industry, the stakes are much higher. The wrong product can cause significant damage, create safety risks, and even jeopardise vital business contracts.
Understanding the suitability of cleaning products, especially when using commercial floor cleaning machines is essential, and a key factor is their pH level. Let’s explore why pH matters and how to choose the right products for your cleaning tasks.
What is pH and Why Does it Matter?
The pH scale measures acidity and alkalinity, ranging from 0 to 14.
- Acidic products: pH below 7
- Neutral products: pH of 7
- Alkaline products: pH above 7
Knowing a product’s pH can help determine its suitability for specific surfaces or stains. For a quick check, cleaners can use litmus paper, a simple tool that measures pH levels.
However, the pH of the product alone isn’t enough to ensure effective cleaning. To tackle stains or spillages successfully, you must also consider the pH of the substance you’re cleaning. The rule of thumb? Use an opposite pH product to neutralise the spillage.
When to Use Alkaline Cleaning Solutions
Most spills, such as food or drink stains, are acidic in nature. For these, alkaline cleaning products work best to neutralise and remove the residue. Alkaline cleaners are particularly effective at breaking down fats, oils, and grease, making them ideal for kitchens and food preparation areas.
A popular example is baking soda, a common household alkaline cleaner known for its versatility.
When to Use Acid-Based Cleaning Products
For alkaline stains, like certain mineral deposits or grease that has dried and hardened, acidic cleaners are the solution. Acid-based products are also great for tackling limescale and calcium deposits, making them effective for kettle de-scaling and other similar tasks.
An everyday example is vinegar, which has an acidic pH perfect for removing calcium build-up. However, caution is needed when using acidic cleaners, especially on surfaces like marble flooring, which is naturally alkaline and can be damaged by acid-based products.
Special Considerations: Complex Stains and Surfaces
Some substances, such as animal urine, change their pH over time. Urine is acidic when fresh but becomes alkaline as it dries, requiring different cleaning approaches depending on its state.
Additionally, always consider the following when selecting a cleaning product:
- Will the surface finish be damaged by acids or alkalis?
- Can your industrial cleaning equipment handle the product safely?
Expert Advice from Karcher Hire UK
We have extensive experience in tackling a wide range of stains and spillages using specialised pH-balanced products and professional cleaning equipment. Whether you’re dealing with grease, mineral deposits, or delicate flooring, our team can recommend the best solutions to meet your needs.
For expert advice or to explore our range of industrial cleaning equipment, contact Karcher Hire UK today.
