What is a trisodium phosphate cleaner?

What is Trisodium Phosphate? An inorganic chemical compound (Na₃PO₄), TSP is a white granular or crystalline substance that can be mixed with water to create an alkaline solution. Once diluted, TSP is a highly effective cleanser, degreaser, and stain remover.

Why is trisodium phosphate a good cleaning agent?

It removes splintered or flaking leftover paint that may impede the bond of the new coat. Mold and mildew treatment: One benefit of washing exteriors with TSP cleaner is that, when combined with household bleach, it eliminates mold and mildew.

Is phosphate good for cleaning?

Phosphates have a long history of use in both commercial and household cleaning products. Since the 1950s, ‘sodium tripolyphosphate’ has widely been added to improve the cleaning power of detergents.

Is trisodium phosphate the same as baking soda?

The main ingredient in TSP is phosphate, but this product contains no phosphate. It has sodium sesquicarbonate, similar to baking soda, as the main ingredient (sodium sesquicarbonate makes up about 20% of actual TSP).

Can I use vinegar instead of TSP?

Vinegar is an excellent solution for natural from trisodium phosphate cleaners. It is a superb wall degreaser suitable for cleaning cabinets before painting. This process is relatively easy and efficient. You need to mix an equal amount of water and white vinegar.

Can you mix TSP with bleach?

TSP and bleach are non-reactive. This means you can add up to 1 cup of bleach per gallon of TSP solution, for moderate infestations. Be aware that this will only remove mold and stains on the surface. Heavy deposits or growths will require an additional step.

What can I use instead of trisodium phosphate?

If you are looking for a more natural trisodium phosphate substitute, borax can be a fine replacement. It doesn’t require all the safety measures of TSP and is inexpensive, easy to use and it won’t hurt the environment. Borax can kill fungus and strip away dirt and grease on porous surfaces such as wood and cement.

Is borax the same as trisodium phosphate?

Trisodium phosphate — also known as TSP — is a heavy-duty cleaning agent that removes grease and dirt while killing mold. Like TSP, borax successfully cleans a variety of surfaces as well as removes mold and mildew. However, borax consists of sodium borate and does not contain harsh chemicals.

What is a substitute for trisodium phosphate?

Is sugar soap the same as TSP?

The comparable cleaning product in Canada and the USA is trisodium phosphate, also known as “TSP”. However, due to environmental concerns about the impact of phosphorus on lakes and streams, products labeled TSP may not actually contain any trisodium phosphate. “Sugar Soap” in the USA is generally a cosmetic product.

Can TSP go down the drain?

The most accessible way to dispose of TSP in the home would be to pour it down the toilet so it gets treated properly. This is even safe on septic systems. Never dispose of used degreasing rinsates like TSP into lakes, streams, storm drains, or open bodies of water.

What is trisodium phosphate cleaner?

Trisodium phosphate (or TSP) is a heavy-duty cleaner often used to prepare surfaces for painting. It is inexpensive and works well for a range of tough cleaning jobs.

Is TSP as good as phosphate in cleaning products?

In short, yes and no. Phosphate is an exceptional grease and grime cutter. However, there are comparable cleaners that can do nearly as good a job as TSP while having less impact on the environment. Here are 10 inexpensive upgrades for a more sustainable home.

Is TSP the same as sodium triphosphate?

Not to be confused with Sodium triphosphate. Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is the inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na 3 PO 4. It is a white, granular or crystalline solid, highly soluble in water, producing an alkaline solution. TSP is used as a cleaning agent, builder, lubricant, food additive, stain remover, and degreaser.

Is trisodium phosphate (TSP) safe for exteriors?

Photo: amazon.com It wasn’t so long ago that trisodium phosphate (TSP) was a go-to choice for tough cleaning jobs, especially on exteriors. Diluted in water and applied often with a stiff scrub brush, it can remove stubborn grease stains and mold and mildew growth. In recent years, however, the popularity of TSP has waned.