Effect of pH on cleaning efficiency and fabric protection in laundry detergent

In the cosmetics industry, especially in the field of detergent production, pH is one of the most important factors that directly affects the cleaning efficiency and the ability to protect fabric fibers. Not only does it help remove stains effectively, pH also determines the durability, color and softness of clothes after each wash. Understanding the role of pH will help consumers choose the right detergent product, both effectively cleaning and protecting the health of the whole family.

What is pH and how does it affect laundry detergent?

pH is an index that measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH value of 7 is considered neutral, less than 7 is acidic, greater than 7 is alkaline. In laundry detergent, pH affects the ability to dissolve and decompose stains such as grease and dirt, and also affects the structure and durability of fabric fibers.

• If the pH is too high (strong alkaline): Detergent can clean quickly but can easily cause fabric fibers to fray, fade, and reduce the life of clothes.
• If pH is too low (acidic): Cleaning ability is reduced, stubborn stains cannot be removed, clothes easily accumulate bacteria and mold.
• Balanced pH (near neutral): Cleans effectively while protecting color and softness, preserving the fabric’s fiber structure.

Effect of pH on fabric color and durability

pH not only affects the cleaning ability but also determines the color fastness and quality of the fabric. A detergent with the right pH will maximize its cleaning ability without damaging the fabric.

• High pH laundry detergent: Easily fades colors, makes clothes wear out quickly, fabric fibers become stiff, and lose their original beauty.
• Low pH laundry detergent: Good color retention but poor cleaning effect, easy to cause bacteria accumulation and odor.
• pH balanced laundry detergent: Keeps clothes fresh, colors long lasting and fabric soft through many washes.

Especially for children’s clothes or people with sensitive skin, choosing a detergent with balanced pH is a prerequisite to protect the skin from irritants.

The effect of pH on fabric protection and clothing color

Not only affecting cleaning ability, the effect of pH is also evident in protecting the color and quality of fabric fibers.

• High pH detergent: Easily fades colors, makes clothes quickly wear out, fray, and lose their original beauty.
• Low pH detergent: May preserve color but does not clean effectively, causing clothes to accumulate bacteria and mold.
• pH balanced laundry detergent: Deep cleans while protecting colors, keeping clothes fresh and beautiful through many washes.

Why is it necessary to neutralize pH during washing?

During the washing process, detergents often create a highly alkaline environment (pH 12-13) that helps the fabric fibers expand and effectively separate stains. However, if the pH is kept high after washing, it will damage the fabric structure, reduce the life of the clothes and can cause skin irritation.

Therefore, the pH neutralization step after washing is essential to bring the pH environment to a safe level (about 5.5 – 7), helping to protect the fabric fibers and the user’s skin. This also helps reduce the number of rinsing steps, saving time and energy.

 Therefore, we need to choose detergent with suitable pH: 

• Prioritize laundry detergent with a near-neutral pH (around 7): This is the ideal pH level that helps balance cleaning efficiency and fabric protection.
• Avoid products with pH that is too high or too low: Especially with children’s clothing, underwear, or high-end fabrics, as they can easily damage and irritate the skin.
• Choose products from reputable brands: Large manufacturers like THT often strictly control the pH in their formulas, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Practical application of THT in controlling pH of laundry water

With over 20 years of experience in the cosmetics industry, THT always focuses on researching and developing laundry detergent products with optimal pH. THT laundry detergent is thoroughly tested to ensure:

• Cleans effectively without damaging fabric fibers.
• Keeps color lasting, limits fabric fiber hardening.
• Safe for all skin types, including children’s sensitive skin.
• Contains no toxic chemicals and does not irritate the skin.

To maximize the effect of pH in fabric protection and cleaning, consumers should note:

• Read product information carefully: Prioritize laundry detergents that clearly state the pH level or have been tested to be safe for skin and fabrics.
• Avoid products with pH that is too high or too low: Especially with children’s clothing, underwear, and high-end fabrics.
• Choose a reputable brand with clear quality testing: Products from major manufacturers like THT are always strictly controlled for pH, ensuring effectiveness and safety.

The effect of pH in laundry detergent is a decisive factor not only in cleaning efficiency but also in optimal protection for clothes and your family’s health. Choosing a detergent with a balanced pH, suitable for each type of fabric will help clothes stay durable, soft and safe for the skin.

Please trust and choose THT Vietnam laundry detergent – a safe and sustainable cleaning solution for every Vietnamese family.