Introduction
How does soap work and what is saponification? This article answers these questions and discusses the soap making process.
The properties of soap has evolved since its inception, but its basic ingredients remain the same. They include a combination of sodium and potassium hydroxides with plant or animal oils or fat. When these two compounds are combined with fatty acids, they make an effective cleansing agent. The chemistry behind soap making is simple but the art of producing a truly good product is complex. And there are a range of other factors in soap chemistry that can affect the quality of soap. Included is the right balance of alkalis.
Soap can be made from a variety of different basic materials, plus specific additives.
Different types of soaps have different properties and uses. Some are clear and solid while others are viscous and liquid or may even be greasy.
Humans have been using soap for over 6,000 years since it was discovered that certain substances can enhance the cleaning power of water.
In ancient China, soap was first made from a mixture of animal fat and ash. The word soap derives from the Arabic “sabu”, meaning fat or grease. The earliest known use of soap as a cleansing agent is found in Egyptian papyri dating back to approximately 3000 BC. Moreover, the Ancient Greeks also used soap, and they were the first to develop the science behind making soap.
They discovered that saponified oils (fatty oils that have been chemically transformed into soap) are more effective than other types of grease in washing with water. In the Roman Empire, soap was made from tallow and lime. In India, soaps were first made using oil of sesame and oil of coconuts. Saponified oils are made by treating vegetable oils or animal fats with an alkali. The alkali reacts with the fatty acids to produce the resultant mixture known as soap.
Amazingly, the process of soap making has not changed fundamentally over the millennia. It has been modified and refined but basically remains the same. Of course, manufacturing technology and the scale of production has evolved significantly, however.
Soap is made from the reaction of fats and oils with an alkaline solution. And any fatty substance like cooking oils, shortening, vegetable oils or animal fats may be used. The alkaline solution most commonly used is lye (sodium hydroxide) which is readily available at hardware stores.Â
When the fats react with the alkaline solution, a chemical reaction called saponification ensues. The triglycerides (fat) and alkalis combine and react to form fatty acid salts (the soap) and a soap byproduct (glycerol). The resultant solution coagulates and then hardens to form soap.
The appearance and performance of the soap is modified in several ways by appropriate additives.
The additives that are used in conjunction with soap include (a) emulsifiers, (b) fragrances, (c) thickeners and (d) preservatives. Emulsifiers are often used to stabilize the soap, improve its foaming properties and impart desirable sensory qualities. Emulsifiers can be either anionic or non-ionic, but they are generally non-ionic. Anionic emulsifiers are most frequently used for their ability to prevent syneresis, i.e., they allow the formation of a stable liquid soap matrix during the manufacturing process.
The type and quantity of each additive is determined by the final application, e.g., soaps for hand washing, fabric cleaning, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, etc.Â
In general, however, all soaps contain an emulsifying agent, one or more surfactants, a fragrance, and one or more additional ingredients. The quantity of each of these components may vary considerably depending upon the application. The types of emulsifiers that are used in conjunction with soap include (a) cationic emulsifiers, (b) anionic emulsifiers, (c) non-ionic emulsifiers and (d) amphoteric emulsifiers. But cationic emulsifiers are used primarily as thickening agents.
Anionic emulsifiers are typically used to stabilize foams. Non-ionic emulsifiers are used to stabilize liquid products such as shampoos, body washes, etc. Amphoteric emulsifiers are used to provide mildness, moisturization and to increase the viscosity of certain formulations.
A surfactant is a compound that reduces surface tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. Surfactants have both hydrophilic (water loving) and lipophilic (oil loving) characteristics.Â
Soap is an excellent detergent.
So how does soap work?
The soap molecule, which is a salt of a fatty acid, consists of an ionic (water loving, or hydrophilic) head, and an oily (hydrophobic or water hating) tail. This makes it an effective cleaning agent.
Insoluble soils are held unto fabric fibers by the residues of oil and water-soluble spills. They are also ground in and attached to the fibers by abrasion, gravity, and electrical forces.
Most fabrics will display surface tension in contact with water. This prevents the water from penetrating the soil and spreading. When soap is added, the hydrophobic tail will seek non water surfaces thus pulling or spreading the water and allowing the surfaces to be contacted by the detergent.
The next step is deflocculation, where the soil is removed from the surface of the fabric.
Most of the soil is held to the fiber surface by oils and sticky residues. The hydrophobic tails of the soap emulsifies these residues and then make their way in to the particulate soils attached to the fiber.
As the sticky residues are removed the soap molecule attaches itself to the particulate soil. The action of the soap is to surround the soil particles.
Then similar heads and tails of the molecule will repel each other. Since they are attached to the soil and fiber itself, they work like a magnet, as like charges repel each other.
This action pries the loose soil from the fibers.
With the oil residues surrounded and the particulate soils suspended in the water based cleaning solution, the soil is now released from the fibers, and can be extracted and rinsed away.
One big problem with soaps made from natural products, is the generation of oily residues or soap scum when the soap molecule breaks down. This residue can act like a magnet for dirt and cause rapid re-soiling after cleaning.
Modern synthetic detergents have been developed to circumvent this and other problems associated with true soaps.
Synthetic detergents are formed from a combination of different chemical agents with a stronger molecular bond. They contain surfactants or surface acting agents that perform the same basic functions as true soap.
They are designed to wet, emulsify, and sequester the soils, and they may contain special additives that confer additional properties.
Some of these formulations do not leave a scum behind after cleaning. Thus, they are designated as soap free.
Soap has been around for a long time and its use will continue because soap making is easy and there are so many types of soap.
Antibacterial soap has helped to control microbes for decades and was a crucial component of Covid control.
Laundry soap and dish soap have made life much easier for all of us today.
The process of saponification is so simple that homemade soap making has become a popular hobby. Homemade soap recipes are easy to find.
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At AJS Carpet Cleaning, we utilize various cleaning methods based on the specific needs of our customers. Some of our commonly used methods include hot water extraction (steam cleaning), dry cleaning, and encapsulation. Each method is tailored to deliver the best results for different types of carpets and upholstery.
Yes, at AJS Carpet Cleaning, we provide cleaning services for area rugs and upholstery as well. Whether you need to freshen up your area rugs or remove stains from your upholstery, we have the expertise to handle it. Our professional team will ensure that your area rugs and upholstery are thoroughly cleaned and restored to their original beauty.
Absolutely! The safety of your pets and children is our top priority at AJS Carpet Cleaning. We use cleaning products that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for your loved ones. Our cleaning process is designed to effectively remove dirt, stains, and allergens without compromising the well-being of your pets and children. Additionally, our pet stain treatment and odor removal services are specifically tailored to address any issues related to pets.
Yes, we offer free estimates for our carpet cleaning services. We understand that every cleaning job is unique, and we want to provide you with an accurate assessment of the cost. To receive a free estimate, visit our online quote and fill out the form with the necessary details. Our team will review your request and provide you with a comprehensive estimate.
Our pricing for carpet cleaning services is typically based on the square footage of the area that needs to be cleaned. This allows us to provide a fair and accurate estimate based on the size of the space. However, we also take into consideration other factors such as the condition of the carpet, the level of stains or dirt, and any additional services you may require. This ensures that our pricing is tailored to your specific needs.Â
In some cases, there may be additional charges depending on specific circumstances. For example, if there are heavily soiled areas that require extra attention, or if there are any specialized treatments needed for stains or odors, there may be additional charges. However, these additional charges are always discussed and agreed upon with the customer before any work is done. We strive to be transparent about our pricing and ensure that there are no surprises.
Yes, we do offer packages and discounts for multiple rooms. We understand that many customers have multiple areas that need cleaning, and we want to provide cost-effective solutions. Our team can provide you with information on our current packages and any available discounts based on the number of rooms you need to have cleaned. To discuss specific pricing options and available discounts, please reach out to our team directly at 801-368-0705 or through our online quote. We’ll be happy to assist you further.
At AJS Carpet Cleaning, we understand that high traffic areas can require additional attention and cleaning. In some cases, there may be an extra charge for cleaning heavily soiled or high traffic areas. However, the specific details and any associated charges would be discussed and agreed upon with you before any work is done. Our goal is to provide transparent pricing and ensure that you are informed about any potential additional charges. If you have any concerns about high traffic areas or would like more information, please call us at (801) 368-0705
We recommend scheduling an appointment with us at least 1-2 weeks in advance to secure your desired date and time. However, we understand that there may be situations where you need immediate service. In such cases, we will do our best to accommodate your needs and find a suitable time slot for your cleaning job. To schedule an appointment, visit our website online booking or contact us directly at 801-368-0705.Â
The duration of the cleaning process can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the area to be cleaned, the level of dirt and stains, and the specific cleaning method used. As a general guideline, a typical carpet cleaning job can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the actual time required may vary. Our team will work efficiently to complete the job as quickly as possible while ensuring thorough and high-quality cleaning. If you have any specific time constraints or scheduling considerations, please let me know so that we can accommodate your needs.
The drying time for carpets can vary depending on various factors, including the humidity level, airflow, carpet thickness, and cleaning method used. On average, carpets typically take around 4-6 hours to dry completely. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the drying time may vary. To expedite the drying process, we recommend ensuring proper ventilation in the area, using fans or opening windows if possible. Our team will also provide you with some post-cleaning tips to help speed up the drying process.Â
Yes, we do offer weekend and evening appointments to accommodate our customers’ busy schedules. We understand that weekdays may not always be convenient for everyone, so we strive to provide flexible appointment options. When scheduling your appointment, please let us know your preferred date and time, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. To book an appointment, you can visit our online booking or contact us directly at 801-368-0705.Â
Yes, AJS Carpet Cleaning is a licensed and insured company. We take pride in providing professional and reliable services to our customers. Our team is fully trained and certified to ensure quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Additionally, we carry liability insurance to protect both our customers and our employees during the cleaning process.Â
Yes, AJS Carpet Cleaning holds industry certifications to ensure the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Our team members are trained and certified in various cleaning techniques and methods. While we don’t have specific certifications mentioned, we continuously invest in training and staying up-to-date with the latest industry practices. This allows us to deliver exceptional results and provide our customers with the best possible service.Â
AJS Carpet Cleaning has been in business since 2000, serving customers in Utah for over 20 years. Our experience and longevity in the industry are a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality cleaning services and customer satisfaction.Â
Yes, we have references and reviews from satisfied customers that you can check. We take pride in our work and value the feedback from our clients. You can visit our website at ablejan.com to find testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, you can also find reviews on our social media pages such as Facebook and Google. We strive to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and are confident that you will find positive feedback about our services.Â
Yes, we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for our services. We are committed to providing high-quality cleaning and ensuring that our customers are happy with the results. If you are not completely satisfied with our service, please let us know within a reasonable timeframe, and we will work with you to address any concerns and make it right. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we stand behind the quality of our work.Â
To maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your carpet after it has been professionally cleaned, here are a few tips:
Following these maintenance practices will help extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking its best.
Yes, we offer aftercare products and services to help maintain the cleanliness and condition of your carpet after it has been cleaned. Our team can provide you with recommendations for carpet spot cleaners or stain removers that are safe and effective for use on your specific type of carpet. Additionally, we can offer advice on proper cleaning techniques for addressing spills and stains.Â
We are able to remove the toughest of the stains:
While you can likely remove stains on your own, the challenge is doing so without damaging your expensive carpet. Call AJS Pro Carpet Cleaning for safe removal.
Yes, we exclusively use commercial green carpet cleaning products formulated with natural and sustainable ingredients, ensuring safety for both the environment and human health.
Cleaning frequency for tile, stone, and grout depends on the location, usage, and type of tile or stone. Here’s a general guideline:
Deep Cleaning: Depending on the traffic and usage, you might want to do a deeper cleaning of your tiles and grout monthly. This involves using a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the grout lines.
Remember, the key to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your tile, stone, and grout is regular cleaning and proper care.
Having your upholstered furniture professionally cleaned offers several benefits:
Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques to deeply clean upholstery, removing dirt, allergens, and contaminants that regular home cleaning methods might miss.
Dirt and grime can wear down and degrade upholstery fibers over time. Regular professional cleaning can help extend the life of your furniture by removing these abrasive substances.
Professionals have the tools and expertise to remove tough stains without damaging the fabric. They can identify the type of stain and the type of fabric to determine the best cleaning method.
Upholstered furniture can harbor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. A professional cleaning can help reduce these allergens, improving indoor air quality and potentially benefiting those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Over time, upholstered furniture can absorb odors from pets, spills, smoke, and other sources. Professional cleaning can help neutralize and remove these odors, leaving your furniture smelling fresh.
Professionals are trained to recognize different types of upholstery materials and know which cleaning methods and products are safe and effective for each. This reduces the risk of damage or discoloration.
Regular professional cleaning can help maintain the vibrant color, texture, and overall appearance of your furniture, making it look newer for longer.
Many professional cleaners offer protective treatments that can be applied after cleaning. These treatments can help repel stains and spills, making future cleanings easier and extending the time between cleanings.
Cleaning upholstery can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Hiring a professional can save you the effort and ensure a thorough job.
While there’s a cost associated with professional cleaning, it can be more economical in the long run. Maintaining your furniture in good condition might mean you don’t need to replace it as often.
Removing dog urine from carpet can be a challenge, especially if it has set for a while. However, with the right approach, you can effectively remove the stain and odor. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
If the urine is still wet, use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot up as much of the urine as possible. Do not rub, as this can spread the urine and push it deeper into the carpet fibers.
Place a thick layer of paper towels on the wet spot and press down with your feet or place a heavy object on top to help absorb the moisture.
Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area generously. Let it sit for a few minutes, then sprinkle baking soda over the area.
Commercial Enzymatic Cleaners: These are specifically designed to break down the proteins in urine, eliminating both the stain and odor. Brands like Nature’s Miracle or Simple Solution are popular choices. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If using the vinegar solution, after sprinkling baking soda, let it fizz and sit for a few hours or overnight if possible.
If using an enzymatic cleaner, apply as directed on the product label.
After the solution has had time to work, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
Rinse the area with cool water and blot again to remove the cleaning solution. This step is crucial to prevent any residue from attracting dirt in the future.
Once the area is completely dry, vacuum to restore the carpet’s texture and remove any leftover baking soda or residue.
If you can still smell urine, it may have soaked into the carpet padding or even the subfloor. In such cases, you might need to treat the area multiple times or consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner.
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Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
If you’ve managed to remove the visible stain from dog urine but are still battling the lingering odor, here are some steps and methods to help you eliminate the smell:
These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins in urine, which are the primary cause of the odor. Brands like Nature’s Miracle, Simple Solution, or Rocco & Roxie are popular choices.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you’ll want to saturate the area to ensure the cleaner reaches the carpet padding where urine might have soaked.
Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area generously.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot up as much moisture as you can.
Once the area is mostly dry, sprinkle baking soda over it. The baking soda will help absorb and neutralize odors.
After letting the baking soda sit for a few hours or overnight, vacuum it up.
If home remedies aren’t effective, consider hiring a professional carpet cleaning service. They have specialized equipment and solutions that can deeply clean and deodorize carpets.
There are commercial odor neutralizers available that can help mask and eliminate pet odors. These can be sprayed or sprinkled on the affected area.
In extreme cases where the urine has deeply soaked into the carpet padding or subfloor, you might need to replace the padding in that particular area. This is a more drastic measure but can be effective in completely eliminating deep-set odors.
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Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
Dog urine can be neutralized using a combination of methods that address both the stain and the odor. Here are some substances and methods that can neutralize dog urine:
White vinegar is a natural acid that can neutralize the alkaline salts present in dried dog urine stains. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and apply it to the urine stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then blot up the moisture.
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can neutralize acidic components in urine. It also acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing odors. After treating a urine spot with vinegar, sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then vacuum.
These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins and uric acid crystals in urine, effectively neutralizing the stain and odor. Popular brands include Nature’s Miracle, Simple Solution, and Rocco & Roxie. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Hydrogen peroxide can help neutralize the odor of dog urine. However, it can also bleach or discolor certain materials, so always test a small, inconspicuous area first. Mix a solution of ½ cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with a teaspoon of dish soap and apply to the urine stain. Allow it to sit for a while, then blot and rinse.
Mild dish soap can help break down the uric acid and remove the stain. It’s often mixed with other solutions, like hydrogen peroxide, for a more effective treatment.
The citric acid in lemon juice can help neutralize the alkaline components of dog urine. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water and apply to the stain. However, be cautious, as lemon juice can also bleach certain fabrics.
Cornstarch can help absorb fresh urine, reducing the amount of urine that needs to be neutralized. Sprinkle cornstarch over a fresh urine spot, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum.
Rinsing the affected area with water after treating it with any of the above solutions can help wash away the urine components and any cleaning residues.
When dealing with dog urine, it’s essential to act quickly. The longer the urine sits, the harder it will be to neutralize and remove the stain and odor. Always test any solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
