The Science of Cleaning by Dario Bressanini

The Science of Cleaning
by Dario Bressanini

ISBN-13: 9781891011320
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: The Experiment
Released: May 21, 2024

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Chemistry professor Dario Bressanini is on a mission to teach readers about safe methods for cleaning their homes while debunking widespread myths. He uses scientific evidence to answer common queries like: Is it more efficient to wash dishes in the sink or in the dishwasher? Can vinegar and baking soda actually unclog your drain? Does bleach remove dirt? How do I get rid of that white stuff on my showerhead?

Bressanini covers these subjects and more by digging into chemistry basics like solubility, pH, and concentration. He explains how to choose the best product for any job, including advice on making selections at the store and using just the right amount to cut down on waste. Everything contains chemicals (yes, even water!)—but we should still be careful and eco-friendly about how we clean.


My Review:
The Science of Cleaning talked about various ingredients used in cleaning products (homemade or store bought) and what those ingredients do. The author got really basic in some places, describing what the laundry symbols mean, for example, and why you might need to use a drycleaner or fabric softener. He also got into the most efficient ways to handwash dishes, though he really thinks you ought to just use a dishwasher and not pre-wash the dishes.

The book also covered bases and acids and how they work to clean various things, the history of things like soap and bleaches, how soap is made, how detergents work and what the various ingredients in them do towards cleaning, and how to remove limescale. He talked about chlorine-based and oxygen-based bleaches, dish washing detergents, disinfectants, and dealing with bacteria, viruses, and mold. And what to use to clean various surfaces, from floors to ovens to drains.

I think he wrote the book just so he could rant on why combining vinegar and baking soda is so obviously a waste and how bad vinegar smells. It also seemed like he wanted to educate the very people that he obviously thinks are dumb. Overall, the book was interesting, but I already knew a lot of the information. The author loves chemicals and really thinks you ought to buy cleaning products rather than try to make them at home. Overall, this book seems best suited for someone who was never taught how to clean their home or wants to clean their home more efficiently.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.