How Do Detergents Work in the Washing Process?
A detergent is a substance, or a combination of substances, used to clean stains, spills and other messes. In the washing process, detergents take advantage of the different chemical structures of different soils and the substance in which an item is cleaned, usually water, to enhance stain break-up.PurposeIn laundry, as well as other cleaning processes, detergents break up the soils and stains and pull them away from clothing. During washing, detergents also help water spread over a surface to pick up soil.Function with WaterDetergent molecules usually have polar components, with positive or negative charges, that help spread water more evenly over a surface for effective cleaning. This polarity helps to keep detergent dissolved in water.Function with StainsThe detergent molecules also contain non-polar components that help break up non-polar substances, like oils and fats. The attraction between water and detergent pulls stains out of clothing.TypesThe molecules of modern detergents
