Choosing the Right Solvent for Removing Soils from Surfaces

WHEN IT COMES to choosing the most appropriate solvent for removing soils from surfaces, it’s important to remember opposites don’t always attract. On the contrary, the optimum solvent for cleaning relies on the principle “like dissolves like”.

Like Dissolves Like

Select a polar solvent, such as water, to dissolve polar residues, such as salts. Select a non-polar solvent, such as hexane, to dissolve non-polar residues, such as oils and greases.

• Related Post, “What Is a Polar Solvent?” »