What implications does pH have on the safety of a cleaner?
Acidic and basic substances have many properties that are hazardous to humans and the environment. Both acids and bases are corrosive. A mildly corrosive substance will slightly burn the skin (and eyes and respiratory tract) while a highly corrosive substance can eat right through many materials (including organ tissue). As a general rule, the more acidic or basic a substance is, the more corrosive it becomes. Gloves are often required while cleaning with chemical cleaners due to their corrosive properties. Acidic and basic cleaners negatively impact the environment. Many of them need to be pH adjusted before disposal, and there are many guidelines and laws which govern the disposal of these toxic products. If you really want a cleaner that you can use glove free and worry free, make sure it is really in the neutral range – from pH 6-8.
