When it comes to cleaning, most people would just start with the most common cleaning agent available in the market.
That is so because people normally do not know about the different types of cleaning agents and the difference between them.
This is because most of us think that all cleaning agents are equal, but that is not true.
Some cleaning agents are more suited for certain tasks while some are more suited for other tasks. For instance, you cannot use the same type of cleaning agent to clean your toilet bowl and your kitchen countertop. If you are going to start your own cleaning business then you definitely should understand the different types of cleaning agents and their uses.
Different Types of Cleaning Agents
There are certain cleaning agents that are more suited for certain tasks, these are as follows:
- Detergents
- Degreasers
- Abrasives
- acids
Let’s take a look at each one in more detail
Detergents
Detergent cleaning agents are a type of surfactant that are typically used for cleaning purposes. These agents work by reducing the surface tension of water, which allows it to more easily penetrate surfaces and remove dirt and grime. Detergent cleaning agents typically contain ingredients like soap, alkalis, and synthetic surfactants.
Degreasers
Degreasers are powerful cleaning agents that are used to remove grease and grime from surfaces. They are typically used in commercial and industrial settings, but can also be used in the home. Degreasers are available in both liquid and aerosol form, and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, glass, and plastic.
Abrasives
Abrasive cleaning chemicals are a type of cleaning agent that uses abrasive particles to remove dirt, grime, and other types of build-up from surfaces.
These chemicals are typically used on harder surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and other surfaces that are difficult to clean with traditional cleaning methods. Abrasive cleaning chemicals can be found in many household cleaning products, as well as in commercial and industrial cleaning products.
Acids
Acid cleaning chemicals are typically used to remove rust and other deposits from surfaces. They are also effective at removing stains and discoloration. Acid cleaning chemicals can be found in a variety of household cleaners and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metals, glass, and ceramic.
Safe handling of cleaning products
Keep in mind that exposure to the chemicals found in cleaning products can cause respiratory issues, skin irritations, chemical poisoning, and, in severe situations, even death. All staff in the food industry should receive the required training on chemical dangers, safe product handling techniques, and what personal protective equipment should be worn when handling the product. Among the best cleaning agent handling techniques are:
- keeping chemicals away from food and any equipment that might come into touch with it, in their original, tightly-sealed containers.
- wearing any necessary personal protective equipment, such as gloves or safety glasses, when handling the product
- utilising and discarding products in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines
- after use, janitorial instruments including brushes, mops, and other items should be cleaned and sanitised before being stored in a secure location.