Definition:
Citric Acid
Citric acid is a builder that can also be found in a wide array of household products including laundry detergents, shampoos and cleaners. Of course, citric acid is also found in citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons and limes. It makes a product formula clean better by affecting the molecules in the formula so they work together better. Citric Acid can also be used as a pH adjuster that alters the pH of a product to improve stability. Every formula has an optimum pH to make it work best. For example, a formula that’s more acidic works better for soap scum removal. Its opposite, a formula that’s more alkaline, might be more effective as a carpet cleaner. We use pH adjusters to make sure we achieve the best pH for a particular job. Also, the pH of a formula can affect how long it lasts within a container – for example limiting its tendency to rust in a can. Citric Acid can also be used as a cleaning agent that removes dirt.
Interested in researching ingredients? Here are some commonly used sources.
We make ingredient choices based on scientific research and our own scientists’ expertise and perspective. But even scientists sometimes disagree about how or where certain ingredients should be used. We encourage anyone with questions to read up on areas of debate. That way, you can make the choices you feel are best for your family. Here are independent sources – both consumer and scientific – spanning various industries that use ingredients similar to ours:
