What is a detergent? All detergents contain, in addition to water and a mixture of a variety of chemicals. It can be surfactants, corrosive acids / alkalis, solvents, preservatives, abrasives, paint and perfume. Detergent residues are hazardous waste. Acids are corrosive (low pH). Phosphoric acids and nitric acid are examples of acids that can be included in detergents and can be found in toilet cleaners and lime removers. Acids irritate the skin and eyes and can cause burns. Alkalis are also corrosive (high pH). Potassium and sodium hydroxide are examples of alkalis that can be contained in detergents and are present in oven cleaners and stoppers. Another example is sodium hypochlorite, which is found in chlorine. Alkalis, like acids, are corrosive and thus irritate the skin and eyes and can also cause burns.

Miva (Environment and Water in Örnsköldsvik AB) SE.

In Sweden, with about 10 million inhabitants, we bought detergents for € 4.5 million in 2016. It causes a great strain on our environment. We now have domestic eco-labels in addition to EU labeling that facilitate our choices.

This activity is designed to increase consumer awareness of chemicals we are exposed to in the home through our detergents and how to make our own from our pantry. The teacher’s task is to teach about eco-label of products that are available in the country in which you are located and which forums exist to influence for more environmental friendly products, to explain ingredients in chemical detergents and how they affect the Nature

This activity can be developed individually by learners who shall be focused on the positive use of nontoxic detergents in their own home. This activity can also be tried at home of course.