Alkalies

Best for removing grease and oil, alkalies are found in such common products as soap, detergent, ammonia, bleach, borax, trisodium phosphate (TSP) and washing soda. Alkaline cleaners work because they neutralize the fatty acids in grease, grease or tobacco smoke, body oils and other sources.

Some alkalies, such as those found in dishwashing detergent or commercial all-purpose cleaners, are mild and safe for use on many surfaces. Precautions are necessary when using harsher cleaners like TSP, sodium hydroxide or lye. These caustic chemicals can burn skin, eyes, and sinuses, and will damage many fabrics and surfaces. Read all cautions and warnings on product labels before starting a task, and wear long sleeves and skin and eye protection while using any of these harsh cleaners.

Rinse all surfaces thoroughly with clean water after treatment with these products.

Reference:

Don Aslett in The Cleaning Encyclopedia: Your A to Z Illustrated Guide to Cleaning Like the Pros.