Washing textiles in commercial and industrial laundries is a complex process involving a variety of factors, from the selection of the right detergent to the correct machine configuration. One of the most important aspects that is often overlooked is the pH of the detergent. The pH can significantly influence washing efficiency, textile durability and safety for both personnel and the environment. In this article, we will explore what pH is, why we should consider the type of detergent in laundries, and how it affects textiles.
What is pH and why is it important in detergents?
pH is a measure that indicates the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a substance. On a scale of 0 to 14, a pH of 7 is considered neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidity, while values above 7 indicate alkalinity. In the context of detergents, pH is key in determining how the product interacts with fabrics and stains.
The pH of a detergent can affect the solubility of stains, the integrity of textile fibres and the overall effectiveness of the washing process. For example, alkaline detergents are very effective at removing grease and oil stains, while more acidic detergents may be better at removing mineral deposits. Understanding the pH of detergents used in a laundry helps to optimise wash results and protect textiles.
How pH affects textiles during washing
The pH of the detergent has a direct impact on the way textiles react during washing. Incorrect pH can cause damage to fibres, alter colours and reduce the lifespan of garments. Here we explain how pH affects textiles in different ways:
Effect on textile fibres
Textile fibres are sensitive to changes in pH. A detergent that is too alkaline can weaken fibres, making them more likely to break or wear out over time. For example, natural fabrics such as cotton and wool are especially susceptible to damage from high pH. In contrast, detergents with a neutral pH can help maintain the integrity of these fibres, protecting them against wear and tear.
On the other hand, too acidic a pH can also be detrimental, as it can cause degradation of certain synthetics or affect the colour fastness of textiles. Therefore, it is essential to find the right pH balance that maximises cleanliness without compromising the durability of the garments.
Influence on textile colours
The pH of the detergent must also be taken into account in the preservation of textile colours. Too high or too low pH can cause colours to fade more quickly. Alkaline detergents, for example, can cause discolouration in dyed fabrics if used too often or in the wrong concentrations. This is of particular concern for dark or brightly coloured garments.
To prevent this type of damage, many detergents are formulated with a pH balance that protects colours during washing. In addition, it is recommended to use detergents specifically for coloured garments, which are designed to minimise fading and keep colours vibrant for longer.
Impact on stains and soiling
The pH of the detergent also affects the product's ability to remove different types of stains. Grease and oil stains, for example, are more soluble in alkaline solutions, which means that detergents with a higher pH are usually more effective in removing them. On the other hand, stains caused by mineral deposits or hard water residues may require a detergent with a lower pH to dissolve them effectively.
In summary, adjusting the pH of the detergent according to the type of stain and the fabric being washed is a strategy to maximise the effectiveness of the wash.
Different types of detergents according to their pH value
There are different types of detergents used in commercial laundries, and each has a specific pH that makes it suitable for certain applications. The main types of detergents according to their pH are described below:
Alkaline detergents
Alkaline detergents are very common in commercial laundries because of their ability to remove difficult stains such as grease, oil and proteins. These detergents generally have a pH between 9 and 12, which makes them very effective in dissolving greasy residues and deep cleaning textile fibres.
However, due to their high alkalinity, it is important to use these detergents with caution, especially on delicate textiles or dyed garments. Additional rinsing may be required to neutralise any alkaline residue and prevent long-term damage.
Neutral detergents
Neutral detergents, with a pH close to 7, are ideal for washing delicate fabrics such as silk, wool and brightly coloured garments. These detergents are mild enough to clean effectively without causing fibre damage or discolouration. Although not as strong as alkaline detergents, neutral detergents are an excellent choice for garments that require delicate treatment.
Acid detergents
Acid detergents, which have a pH below 7, are mainly used to remove mineral deposits and stains caused by hard water. These detergents are less common in general laundering, but can be very useful in specific applications, such as removing calcium deposits or cleaning fabrics that have been affected by contact with alkaline substances.
It is important to use acid detergents with caution, as too low a pH can damage certain synthetic or natural fibres if not handled correctly.
They are usually applied at the end of the washing process to neutralise the alkalinity of the previous steps.
How to choose the right detergent according to the pH value
Choosing the right detergent for each wash load is essential to maintain the quality of textiles and optimise wash results. Here are some tips on how to select the right detergent according to pH:
- Consider the type of fabric: For delicate textiles such as silk or wool, it is best to opt for neutral detergents. This will help to protect the fibres and maintain the softness and lustre of the garments.
- Assess the stains: If you are dealing with tough stains such as grease or oil, an alkaline detergent will be more effective. However, be sure to rinse the garments thoroughly to avoid any residue that may damage fabrics in the long term.
- Protect colours: For dark or brightly coloured garments, choose a pH-balanced detergent that protects against fading. Detergents formulated specifically for coloured garments are an excellent choice in this case.
- Consider hard water: It is recommended to use detergents with a high concentration of sequestrants. If necessary, use acidic products to remove accumulated limescale deposits.
Tips for managing pH in the washing process
In addition to selecting the right detergent, there are other strategies you can implement to manage pH during the washing process:
- Regular pH monitoring: It is advisable to monitor the pH of the water in the wash cycle, especially if you are using detergents with an extreme pH. This will allow you to adjust the process in real time and ensure that textiles are not exposed to potentially harmful conditions.
- Use of neutralisers: After washing with highly alkaline detergents, consider using neutralisers to balance the pH of the garments before drying. This is especially useful to avoid residues that may affect the quality of the garments or irritate the skin.
- Rinse settings: Make sure that the rinse cycle is thorough enough to remove any detergent residue. Insufficient rinsing may leave an unbalanced pH in the garments, which could lead to long-term damage.
Conclusion
pH is a fundamental factor in the washing process in commercial and industrial laundries. It affects not only the effectiveness of the detergent in removing stains, but also the durability and appearance of textiles. Understanding the importance of pH and knowing how to manage it properly can make the difference between a wash that damages fabrics and one that preserves them. By choosing detergents with the right pH and applying best practices in the laundering process, you can ensure that textiles are kept in excellent condition, providing a high quality service that satisfies your customers.