T - Time

Question/problem:
How can understanding the "time-factor" in your cleaning process help to ensure desired results?

Solution:
This addresses the third variable "TIME" in Alconox's acronym BATHCARD, factors that contribute to successful cleaning. Click here to learn more.

TIME
In general, the longer the cleaning time, the more thorough the cleaning will be. Many cleaning mechanisms such as emulsifying, dissolving, suspending, and penetrating are time dependent.

Cleaning time can be accelerated by increased agitation and temperature and by the use of a more aggressive detergent. If none of these variables can be changed - perhaps, because the substrate is too delicate or the proper equipment, unavailable - be prepared for longer cleaning times. While manual cleaning may take minutes: and spray cleaning, seconds: soaking may take hours, possibly overnight, to achieve comparable cleanliness.

There are some instances when long cleaning times may promote substrate corrosion, weakening, or swelling. The optimum cleaning time depends on the specific substrate, temperature, cleaning method, and detergent.