Which is better base ammonia or baking soda?

Ammonia and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) are both common household cleaning agents. They are both alkaline substances, which means they have a pH greater than 7. However, there are some key differences between the two compounds that make them better suited for different cleaning tasks.

Ammonia is a stronger base than baking soda, with a pH of around 11. This makes it more effective at removing tough stains and dirt, such as grease, oil, and food residue. Ammonia is also a good disinfectant, and it can kill bacteria and viruses.

Baking soda is a milder base, with a pH of around 8. This makes it less effective at removing tough stains, but it is also less likely to damage delicate surfaces. Baking soda is also a good deodorizer, and it can absorb odors from carpets, furniture, and other fabrics.

In general, ammonia is a better choice for cleaning tough stains and dirt, while baking soda is a better choice for cleaning delicate surfaces and absorbing odors.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between ammonia and baking soda:

| Characteristic | Ammonia | Baking soda |

|---|---|---|

| pH | 11 | 8 |

| Strength | Stronger | Milder |

| Effectiveness at removing tough stains | More effective | Less effective |

| Effectiveness at disinfecting | More effective | Less effective |

| Effectiveness at deodorizing | Less effective | More effective |

| Safety for use on delicate surfaces | Less safe | More safe |

It is important to note that both ammonia and baking soda can be harmful if they are not used properly. Always read the product label carefully before using either compound, and take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area.