Question 1

What makes soap so good at cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Soap works like a magnet. One end grabs onto the grease and dirt, and the other end holds onto water. When you rinse with water, soap carries away the dirt.

Question 2

Why do we need to use hot water when cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Hot water helps dissolve dirt and grease faster. It makes soap bubble up more, helping to clean your stuff better.

Question 3

What is vinegar used for when cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Vinegar is a bit like a gentle scrub. It's good at removing bad smells and getting rid of sticky stuff because it's a mild acid.

Question 4

Why does bleach make things white?

Accepted Answer

Bleach breaks down the colors. So, when you use it, it makes stains disappear by making them colorless.

Question 5

Is baking soda really good for cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Baking soda can scrub away grime and bad smells. It's like a gentle scrub and doesn't scratch surfaces.

Question 6

Why do some cleaners smell strong?

Accepted Answer

Some cleaners smell strong because they have special chemicals that help remove tough stains. The strong smell disappears once the area is clean and dried.

Question 7

Can lemon juice be used for cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Lemon juice is good at cutting grease and making things shiny. Plus, it smells great!

Question 8

Why do we get bubbles when using soap?

Accepted Answer

Bubbles form when soap traps air. They help spread the soap around, covering more area to clean away dirt.

Question 9

What's special about disinfectants?

Accepted Answer

Disinfectants kill germs and bacteria. They're like tiny soldiers that fight microscopic invaders to keep things safe.

Question 10

How does toothpaste clean teeth?

Accepted Answer

Toothpaste has tiny scrubbing bits and special ingredients. They remove leftover food and fight the bad stuff that causes cavities.

Question 11

Why does dish soap help with oily dishes?

Accepted Answer

Dish soap is designed to grab onto oil and fat. It breaks them up so they can be washed away easily.

Question 12

Can salt be used for cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Yes, salt can scrub off dirt because it's rough. It's good for pots and pans to remove stuck-on food.

Question 13

Why do some cleaners fizz?

Accepted Answer

Some cleaners fizz when baking soda meets an acid like vinegar. This fizzy reaction helps loosen dirt and grime.

Question 14

How does laundry detergent work on clothes?

Accepted Answer

Laundry detergent helps loosen and pull away the dirt from clothes. It keeps the dirt from sticking back once it’s washed away.

Question 15

Why can't we mix some cleaners together?

Accepted Answer

Mixing certain cleaners can create dangerous reactions that can harm you. It's always safer to use one cleaner at a time.

Question 16

What makes hand sanitizers effective?

Accepted Answer

Hand sanitizers have alcohol that kills germs. They work quickly to clean your hands when there’s no soap and water around.

Question 17

Why does cleaner make windows shiny?

Accepted Answer

Window cleaners have ingredients that cut through streaks. They help remove fingerprints and smudges, leaving them clear.

Question 18

How do sprays kill bugs?

Accepted Answer

Spray cleaners for bugs disrupt their ability to breathe or feed. This helps keep bugs away from your home.

Question 19

Why is it important to rinse after using a cleaner?

Accepted Answer

Rinsing away the cleaner removes leftover soap or chemicals. This ensures surfaces are safe to touch and clean.

Question 20

How do air fresheners work?

Accepted Answer

Air fresheners release a nice scent that covers bad odors. They have tiny scent particles that float in the air, making everything smell good.

The Chemistry of Everyday Cleaners - 20 FAQs Explained Simply