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P&S

Bug Off

alkalinehigh-pHcorrosiveprotein-dissolving

Best Value

$0.12/oz

5_gallon

High-strength professional bug remover using alkaline chemistry. More aggressive than enzyme-based alternatives but requires more careful handling.

Key Chemistry

pH Level

13.0

Active Mechanism

Extreme pH (13) denatures and hydrolyzes proteins and chitin in bug residue. Nonionic surfactants penetrate dried deposits and emulsify broken-down organic matter. Pyrophosphate chelates minerals and softens water.

Surfactants

3 (nonionic)

Expert Analysis

P&S Bug Off uses extreme alkaline chemistry (pH 13) to break down protein-based insect residue. At this pH, proteins denature and hydrolyze rapidly. Tetrapotassium pyrophosphate enhances cleaning in hard water and adds cleaning power. Three nonionic surfactants penetrate dried deposits and emulsify the broken-down organic matter for easy removal.

Key Differentiators

  • pH 13 - most aggressive bug remover analyzed
  • Pure alkaline approach (no enzymes)
  • Pyrophosphate chelator for hard water
  • Nonionic surfactant system for penetration
  • Excellent price point ($0.12/oz at 5-gal)

Potential Concerns

  • pH 13 - causes severe skin burns
  • Corrosive to metals - not safe on chrome, bare metal, wheels
  • Will strip wax and sealant
  • Requires full PPE
  • Harmful to aquatic life
  • Not for DIY users without proper safety knowledge

Ingredients

7 disclosed
Waternot_disclosed
CAS: 7732-18-5solvent
Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate1-5%
CAS: 10213-79-3cleaning agent
Tetrapotassium Pyrophosphatenot_disclosed
CAS: 7320-34-5chelating agent
C9-11 Pareth 61-5%
CAS: 68439-46-3surfactant
Alcohols, C10-12, Ethoxylatednot_disclosed
CAS: 66455-15-0surfactant
Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated1-5%
CAS: 68439-45-2surfactant
Dyenot_disclosed
CAS: N/Acolorant

Source: manufacturer disclosure

Safety Profile

Signal Word
Danger
Eye Hazard
Causes serious eye damage (Category 1)
Skin Hazard
Causes severe skin burns and eye damage (Category 1)
Corrosive to Metals
Yes
Flammable
No

pH 13 - highly corrosive. Requires full PPE (gloves, goggles, protective clothing). Not for use on bare metal.