Comparing Bacterial, Enzyme and Chemical Cleaners
When it comes to cleaning up odors and stains, you are offered many different options. In the past we’d deal with our pesky carpet stains using a chemical-based cleaning product that would break down the stain or odor. With the recent call to “Go Green” new solutions to odors and stains have begun popping up to replace harsh, harmful, and unhealthy chemical cleaners. You may have also seen enzyme cleaners in stores. These are the common answer for a green cleaner or all-natural cleaner. But, now there is a third answer, Bacterial cleaners.
Two years ago I would have had no clue whatsoever what all these different types of cleaners are or what they do. So now that my whole life is entirely committed to knowing cleaning products (Yeah “whole life” and “entirely committed” are slight exaggerations), let me enlighten you as to what the difference is between Bacterial, Enzyme, and Chemical cleaners. I’ll keep it brief because too much of this information could bore people to death.
Chemical Cleaners- Typically they use chemicals to break down the chemical bonds that create the odor or stain. Often times harsh chemicals are used that may break down an odor or stain but can also create health risks and even a small amount of breakdown to the material that is being cleaned. For a time these cleaners were our only options and thus did the job the best they could, but now with the aid of science and better technology we have other options.
Enzyme Cleaners- This type of cleaner uses enzymes which attack the odor and stain and break them down. Enzymes are not living organisms and therefore cannot multiply or reproduce themselves. They break down complex compounds into more simple ones. Enzymes promote the natural chemical breakdown of complex matter (including stains/odors). Sometimes this breakdown is enough to get rid of some stains, but there is leftover material from the stain even if you can’t see or smell it anymore. You run the risk of this leftover material resurfacing and the stain showing up again.
Bacterial Cleaners- Bacterial cleaners combine both enzymes and bacteria. In nature all things break down or decompose as a result of bacteria. Bacterial cleaners use the same bacteria found in nature to eat away the stains and odors leaving behind nothing but water and carbon dioxide. It’s the same process nature uses. Bacteria also multiplies and reproduces itself so it eats faster the longer it’s allowed to live. Bacteria produces enzymes that work the same as explained above, basically preparing the stain to be more easily digested by the bacteria. Water is the lifeline of bacterial cleaners. Once the spot that has been cleaned the bacteria dies leaving behind only water and carbon dioxide.
At Unique we produce all-natural cleaners. Our organic cleaning supplies wipe out odors and stains. Our safe drain cleaner safely opens up clogged drains, and our grease removers clean up grease and oil. Why reinvent the wheel when nature is so well designed to deal with its own waste? Nature’s way is the best way! To see more about our products and to find a retailer near you click here.
