The power of dilution: maximizing efficiency and savings with concentrated cleaning products
October 28, 2024
By Simple Green, for the Blue Print
By Simple Green, for the Blue Print
When it comes to industrial cleaning, efficiency is key. Whether you're responsible for maintaining a factory floor, a commercial kitchen, or a sprawling office complex, the goal is always the same: achieve the highest level of cleanliness in the most cost-effective manner. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using concentrated cleaning formulas and understanding how to properly dilute them for various cleaning tasks.
Concentrated vs. ready-to-use cleaning productsBusinesses generally have two options when it comes to cleaning products: concentrated formulas or ready-to-use (RTU) solutions. RTU products are exactly what they sound like—pre-mixed and ready to apply right out of the container. While convenient, workers can just grab a bottle and go, they often come with a higher cost per use because you end up paying for the water and packaging along with the active ingredients.
On the other hand, concentrated cleaning products are highly potent solutions that must be diluted with water. While the initial cost of a concentrate may seem higher, one gallon can produce multiple gallons of usable cleaning solution. This means that over time, concentrates can provide significant cost savings, especially in large-scale operations. Choosing the right chemistryNot all concentrates are created equal. It’s important to choose the right chemistry for your industrial operation. Not only do you need to consider the health, safety, and sustainability impacts of the concentrates you choose, but you also need to think about chemistry from a dilution standpoint.
Let’s get into the science side of cleaning for a minute. Most formulas rely on a high pH for their cleaning efficacy and will perform poorly when diluted at high ratios. In addition, high pH concentrates are typically classified as corrosive, which makes them hazardous to store, handle and use. The base ingredients used in this type of chemistry is typically solids that are diluted with water during production. This can cause problems when rinsing away chemical residue in the cleaning process. The importance of proper dilutionThe beauty of concentrated cleaning products lies in their versatility. By adjusting the dilution ratio, you can create solutions tailored to various cleaning tasks—whether you need a heavy-duty formula for stubborn grease and grime, a medium-strength solution for general cleaning, or a light dilution for daily maintenance.
Achieving the desired results hinges on using the correct dilution ratio for the task at hand. Incorrect dilution can lead to several problems:
Saving money with concentratesWhen properly diluted, concentrated cleaning products offer tremendous cost savings. Instead of purchasing and storing multiple RTU products for different cleaning tasks, facilities can stock a few concentrated formulas and adjust the dilution as needed. This approach reduces inventory costs and minimizes storage space requirements, both of which contribute to the overall efficiency of your operation.
VersatilityIn addition to cost savings, concentrates offer flexibility that RTU products simply can’t match. With one concentrate, you can create cleaning solutions for various tasks. This adaptability means you don’t need to stock multiple types of cleaning products for different jobs, further streamlining your inventory.
As an example, an industrial facility might use the same concentrated cleaner for floors, walls, and equipment. By adjusting the dilution ratio, they can tackle tough grime on machinery one day and then switch to a gentler solution for daily floor maintenance the next. This versatility allows for a more dynamic approach to cleaning, where different areas and surfaces can be treated with the same product adjusted to the right strength for the job. Environmental impactMoreover, concentrates reduce packaging waste, which aligns with sustainability practices
and can help companies meet their environmental goals. Purchasing fewer bottles also reduces the frequency of reorders, lowering environmental impact even further. Basically, less packaging and fewer shipments means a lower carbon footprint, contributing to a more eco-friendly operation. Ensuring safety and complianceProper handling and dilution of concentrated products is essential. For our industrial partners, we recommend investing in automated dilution control systems to enhance safety and consistency. These systems are designed to mix concentrates with water at precise ratios, eliminating human error from the equation.
By using such systems, companies can ensure that each batch of cleaning solution is perfectly diluted. This reduces waste and the risk of cleaning sensitive components with overly concentrated chemicals, thereby ensuring surfaces are cleaned effectively without damage. The smart choice for industrial cleaningConcentrated cleaning products offer a powerful combination of cost savings, versatility, and sustainability that RTU products simply can’t match. In today’s competitive market, where margins are thin and efficiency is paramount, the smart choice is clear. By mastering dilution, companies can unlock the full potential of these powerful products to ensure every drop is used to maximum effect.
Content originally from Simple Green. Reused here with permission.
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