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• A detergent is a powder or liquid soap used to wash clothing or dishes. Detergents work by lowering the surface tension of water and allowing grease to dissolve out of the surface and into the water. This web page contains information on common additives to detergents and their function, links to reviews on different commercial products, and links on cleaning tips. A section on How to Make Laundry Detergent is included as well.

• Fast Facts

  1. Classes of detergents: Anionic, cationic, nonionic, and amphoteric. Anionic alkaline detergents are the most common. http://www.chemistry.co.nz/detergent_cla...
  2. Biodegradation of detergents: Detergents vary significant in their ability to biodegrade; as a general rule it is best to use only the minimum amount required to clean.
  3. Warnings: Use as directed and handle with care
  4. Warning: Never mix with other cleaning products
  5. Caution: Test a small hidden area on clothes to determine colorfastness

• Contents

  Aside from fragrances and colors, there are many ingredients in detergents that help clean a surface or material.

  Detergents contain surfactants which are substances that lower water surface tension. They help to dissolve grease into the water.

  Some contain abrasives the will scrub the surfaces. This is common in dish washing detergents.

  Acids and oxidants are used to bleach and break down organic material.

  Enzymes are added to help break down organic substances such as food stains.

  Ingredients like water softeners, pH adjusters and foam reducers help the detergent work more efficiently.

  Fabric softeners and color brighteners help the material look and feel better but are not associated with cleaning the material.

• How to Make Your Own Laundry Detergent

  Making your own laundry detergent is an economical and fairly simple thing to do. There are advantages as well, such as having a detergent that is unscented cleaner without have unnecessary additives or too much soap that will irritate sensitive skin. Laundry detergent formulas given in How to Make Laundry Detergent are also heavy duty enough to clean greasy work clothes and cloth diapers. Recipes for liquid detergent and powdered detergent are given that are as good as or better than what you will buy in the store.

• Safety

  Detergents may contain many substances that may be harmful if handled. Acids, solvents, surfactants, and other ingredients can be irritable to the skin. Always carefully read the label of every detergent and take precautionary measures if required, like wearing rubber gloves. Always use as directed and never mix detergents with other cleaning products. Gas may be produced that could be deadly.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  How to Make Laundry Detergent | How to Do Laundry | How to Wash Towels | How to Do Laundry Videos | Washing Machine | Dishwasher | Towels | Floor Cleaners | How to Remove Stains

  • Laundry Detergent Coupons | Tide Coupons
  • Washing Soda

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