Adams All Purpose Cleaner
A high-pH alkaline all-purpose cleaner using sodium hydroxide at full strength for heavy degreasing, dilutable for gentle cleaning on delicate surfaces. Adam's Polishes Adams All Purpose Cleaner ranks #1 strongest among 41 all-purpose cleaners in ChemCX's analysis, with a formulation built for heavy degreasing and multi-surface cleaning. Its pH of 13.0 places it among the most alkaline APCs, providing stronger degreasing action but requiring more care on delicate surfaces. It also contains chelating agents that help it clean effectively in hard water conditions.
Key Chemistry
pH Level
Active Mechanism
alkaline saponification
Surfactants
3 (anionic, nonionic, cationic, amphoteric)
Expert Analysis
Uses sodium hydroxide as the primary alkaline active at pH 13, creating a potent degreasing formula that breaks down organic contamination and heavy soiling. The concentrate design allows dilution ratios to be adjusted from full strength for engine bays and heavy contamination down to gentle ratios for interior surfaces and delicate materials.
Key Differentiators
- •Comprehensive surfactant system with anionic, nonionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants for broad cleaning versatility
- •Ultra-concentrated formula allows single product to handle everything from heavy degreasing to gentle cleaning through dilution control
Potential Concerns
- ⚠pH 13 alkalinity requires careful dilution and PPE use, with manufacturer warning against use on sensitive surfaces at full strength
- ⚠Danger signal word indicates hazardous material classification requiring proper handling and storage procedures
Ingredients
Source: sds section 3
Safety Profile
Serious safety concerns due to high alkalinity and eye damage potential
