Before delving into the role of pH in laundry detergents, let’s take a moment to understand what pH signifies. pH, which stands for “potential of hydrogen,” serves as a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. This scale spans from 0 to 14, with a midpoint of seven representing neutrality. Anything below seven indicates acidity, while values above 7 denote alkalinity or basicity.

Ideal pH range for laundry detergents

The ideal pH range for laundry detergents falls between 7 and 8.5, leaning slightly towards alkalinity. This pH level effectively lifts dirt, oils, and stains from fabrics without causing excessive damage to the fibers. Detergents within this pH range also help preserve the fabric’s integrity, reducing the risk of premature damage and wear.

Effects of high pH detergents

• Fabric damage – High pH detergents weaken and break down fabric fibres over time, leading to thinning, fraying, and even holes in your clothes.
• Color fading – Alkaline detergents cause colours to fade more quickly as they strip away the dye molecules from the fabric.
• Skin irritation – High pH detergents leave residue on your clothes, which may cause skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin.

Effects of low pH detergents

• Ineffective cleaning – Acidic detergents are less effective at removing dirt, oils, and stains from fabrics, as they need more cleaning power.
• Residue buildup – Low pH detergents cause a buildup of residue on your clothes, leading to a dull, greyish appearance and potential skin irritation.
• Environmental impact – Acidic detergents harm the environment, disrupting the natural pH balance of water systems when discharged.

Choosing the right pH-balanced detergent

1. Check the label – Many detergent manufacturers now include pH information on their product labels. Look for detergents that fall within the 7-8.5 pH range.
2. Opt for natural ingredients – Detergents made with natural, plant-based ingredients tend to have a more neutral pH than those with harsh chemicals.
3. Consider your fabric types – Some fabrics, such as silk and wool, require a specific pH range to maintain their integrity. Always check the care labels on your garments and choose a detergent suitable for the fabric type.
4. Test the pH – If you need clarification on your detergent’s pH level, use pH testing strips to measure it. Dissolve a small amount of detergent in water and dip the strip to get a reading.

Role of pH in detergents

In addition to regular truly free laundry detergent, specialized detergents are designed for specific purposes, such as whitening or colour protection. These detergents may have slightly different pH levels to achieve their intended effects.

1. Whitening detergents – These detergents often have a higher pH level (around 9) to remove stains and brighten whites. However, they should be used sparingly and only on white fabrics to avoid damaging coloured clothing.
2. Color-safe detergents – These detergents typically have a neutral to slightly acidic pH level (around 6.5-7) to help preserve colours and prevent fading. They are gentler on fabrics and suitable for most coloured garments.

pH and your skin

The pH level of your laundry detergent also impacts your skin health. Using high-pH detergents disrupts the skin’s natural balance, leading to dryness, itchiness, and irritation. This is especially true for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. Choosing a pH-balanced detergent helps minimize skin irritation and maintain your skin’s health.