Clean with ammonia

Ammonia is a chemical compound with various properties and uses; from the manufacture of daily use products, to its contribution to the fertilizer industry. However, at a domestic level it stands out for its qualities as a cleaning and degreasing agent, which favors the performance of multiple tasks at home.

This compound is also known as azan or ammonium hydroxide. Ammonia’s formula is NH₃, so its molecule contains one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. It is a colorless gas, with a repulsive, unpleasant and pungent odour, associated with the smell given off by cat urine.

It can occur naturally in the environment, soil, water, and air; also in plants and animals and even in humans. The body produces ammonia when protein-rich foods are broken down into amino acids, which are then converted into urea.

Ammonia and its use in different fields

Ammonia applications cover large sectors. For this reason, it can be found in the fertilizer market, in cleaning products for domestic use, it is also used at an industrial level and in manufacturing companies.

An estimated 90% of ammonia production is used in fertilizers. Since crops consume nutrients from the soil, it is necessary to use fertilizers that favor the biological cycle of plants.

Likewise, thanks to the properties of ammonia, it can be used to remove surprising stains on various surfaces in the home; such as glass, tile, flooring, furniture and more. Likewise, it is used in sinks, toilets and countertops, since it can drag accumulated dirt.

In the industrial field, it is used in air conditioning equipment and as a refrigerant gas; also in the manufacture of many explosives, fabrics, plastics, dyes, and pesticides. In addition, it is ideal for the purification of water supplies.

ammonia and cleaning

Once you know what ammonia is for, there are no excuses for stains and accumulated dirt to continue to be present in the home. Next, the most important uses of ammonia at the domestic level.

Bathroom

Since ammonia disinfects, it is an effective product to use in bathrooms. It can remove dirt and keep wall and floor tiles sparkling clean for much longer. It also helps to eliminate the much feared and unpleasant mold, an agent that tends to proliferate in these humid environments.

Crystals

Cleaning crystals with ammonia or cleaning glass is an excellent option to leave them with a perfect shine; In a short time, this product is capable of removing stains, dirt and fingerprints that may be on these delicate surfaces.

Carpets and rugs

Many homes use carpets and rugs, which makes it inevitable that some accidental spillage of liquids on these surfaces will happen. For this reason, cleaning carpets with ammonia helps the stain to be easily removed. You just have to vacuum up the dust beforehand, using one of the Rowenta vacuum cleaners (by clicking on this link you can find some options to choose from), for example, and use ammonia diluted in water with a sprayer, rub and then dry the fabric.

Grease

The kitchen is the area of ​​the house that has the greatest problem with dirt that tends to accumulate, especially the grease that comes from splashes when food is prepared. Ammonia is known for its degreasing power, so it can efficiently clean countertops, dishwashers, backsplashes, kitchen surfaces, and even the oven.

For best results, ammonia diluted in hot water can be used.

Upholstery

When it comes to stained or dirty car upholstery, there are many products on the market that promise to make it look like new. However, cleaning car upholstery with ammonia is an inexpensive option that gives excellent results. You can also clean the sofa with ammonia, especially those models whose upholstery does not allow the cover to be removed.

Clothes and shoes

To clean clothes and shoes you can use scented ammonia. This product contains the same cleaning power as conventional ammonia, only its smell has been improved so as not to leave traces. Removes stains from fabrics with ease; however, it is advisable to carry out a preliminary test before use, since not all fabrics resist its chemical composition. Likewise, ammonia can be mixed in the washing machine with the detergent to wash various garments.

Objects and metals

To recover the beauty and shine of objects made of metal such as bronze or copper, or jewelery made of gold or diamonds; you can use a small portion of ammonia with warm water. You just have to rub the piece with a cloth and clean to give them new life. Likewise, it is also very useful for polishing the fretboard of some guitars, such as the well-reviewed Yamaha c40.

security recommendations

All products used for cleaning that contain ammonia are irritating, so they must be used with great caution. This gas, when diluted in water, transforms into liquid ammonia, which should not be mixed with bleach or other chemical substances, since it generates toxic gases that, when inhaled, can cause damage to the mucous membranes, the lungs and cause severe poisoning.

For this reason, before starting the cleaning task, it is important to consider some prevention measures.

– Above all, it is essential that the place is ventilated, so doors and windows should be opened.

– Eye protection and gloves should be used to prevent hands from coming into contact with this chemical.

– Ammonia should be kept in a dry, cool area and out of the reach of both children and pets.

– This product should be prevented from coming into contact with fire.

– If ammonia is accidentally ingested or comes into contact with mucous membranes, you should see a doctor immediately.

Cleaning with ammonia keeps the home sparkling. In addition, it is a cheap and reliable product, only the manufacturer’s recommendations for use should be followed to avoid any accident.