Ammonia has long been a cleaning agent that is used around the home, as well as in restaurants and other public locations. While the product is perfectly safe to use with minimum precautions, some people are not aware that ammonia is found in their cleaning products, and are somewhat leery about the use of pure or scented ammonia in the home. Here are some facts about cleaning with ammonia that will make it clear that this inexpensive alternative to high priced cleansers can be both safe and effective.

Ammonia is often used as one of the base ingredients of a number of household cleaning supplies. The reason for this is that there are very few surfaces that cannot be efficiently cleaned with ammonia. While ammonia can be used full strength, it is also possible to use the product when diluted with water. For example, cleaning windows with ammonia is a great way to get a clear and streak-free look for your home. By mixing roughly two parts ammonia to one part water, you have a window cleaner that will cut through just about any type of surface dirt you can imagine. The mixture can be placed in a spray bottle and used in the same manner as any window cleaner product that costs a great deal more.

In like manner, ammonia is an excellent tool when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting kitchen counter tops. The properties of ammonia work very well in cutting through grease that builds up over time, as well as removing bacteria from the work surface. Along with kitchen counter tops, ammonia is also a great way to clean a wooden chopping block, as the liquid will get down into the tiny nooks and crannies of the surface of the wood, killing bacteria that tend to gather there over repeated uses. Stainless steel appliances, such as refrigerator fronts, range tops and even stainless steel sinks will also clean up well with ammonia.

Ammonia is also handy in the bathroom, as it is an ideal means of cleaning porcelain. The application is the same as with windows, although it is possible to use the product at full strength for stubborn water stains in the tub. Along with the fixtures in the bathroom, ammonia also works well to remove soap scum from wall tiles, as well as leaving a clean shine to the tile on the floor of the space.

In fact, there are very few materials around the home that cannot be cleaned with ammonia. One notable exception is upholstery and carpeting. While some people recommend the use of an ammonia solution to remove spots from sofas or carpets, it is important to test the treatment in an inconspicuous spot first. There is a good chance that the ammonia could discolor the material, leaving a spot that looks worse than the stain.

When using ammonia, even diluted ammonia solutions, it is necessary to make sure the area is well ventilated. Also, keep in mind that ammonia is never to be mixed with other household agents, such as bleach. For just about any application other than fabric, ammonia and a little water will do the job as well as any commercial cleaner and for a fraction of the cost.