Can You Use Ajax on Dishes? A Complete Guide to Safety and Effectiveness
When you hear “Ajax,” you probably think of two things: the powerful web development technique for creating dynamic websites, or the popular household cleaning brand. If you’re wondering whether you can use Ajax cleaner on dishes, you’re in the right place. This article will clear up the confusion, provide safety guidelines, and offer effective alternatives for dish cleaning.
Understanding Ajax Cleaner: What Is It?
Ajax is a well-known brand that manufactures a variety of cleaning products, including Ajax Powder Cleanser and Ajax Dishwashing Liquid. However, the classic “Ajax Cleanser” is a scouring powder designed to tackle tough stains on surfaces like sinks, bathtubs, and cooktops. It often contains abrasives and chemicals meant for hard surfaces, not necessarily for items used for food consumption.
Is It Safe to Use Ajax Cleanser on Dishes?
The short answer is no, you should not use Ajax abrasive powder cleanser on dishes, cookware, or utensils. Here’s why:
- Chemical Residue: Ajax cleanser may leave behind chemical residues that are not food-safe.
- Abrasive Damage: The abrasive particles can scratch glass, ceramic, porcelain, and non-stick surfaces, making them look dull and damaging protective coatings.
- Health Risk: Ingestion of cleaning chemicals, even in small amounts, can be harmful.
However, Ajax Dishwashing Liquid (the liquid soap variant) is specifically formulated for dish cleaning and is perfectly safe for hand-washing dishes.
Ajax Products Comparison Table
| Product Name | Primary Use | Safe for Dishes? | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ajax Powder Cleanser | Scouring sinks, tubs, hard surfaces | No | Abrasives, bleach, surfactants | Too abrasive, may contain non-food-safe chemicals |
| Ajax Dishwashing Liquid | Hand-washing dishes | Yes | Surfactants, mild cleansers, scent | Formulated for dish cleaning, effective and safe |
| Ajax Multi-Purpose Wipes | Cleaning countertops, appliances | No | Cleaning agents, disinfectants | Not designed for dishware; may leave residue |
Safe & Effective Alternatives for Dish Cleaning
For tough stains on dishes (like baked-on food, tea stains, or burnt pans), consider these safe and effective methods:
- Baking Soda Paste: A mild abrasive that’s food-safe. Mix with water, apply, let sit, then scrub.
- White Vinegar Soak: Cuts through grease and mineral deposits. Soak dishes in a vinegar-water solution.
- Dishwasher Tablets/Powder: Formulated for dishware and cookware in dishwashers.
- Specialized Cookware Cleaners: Products like Bar Keepers Friend (for stainless steel, ceramic) are designed for food-contact surfaces.
How to Remove Tough Stains Safely
| Stain Type | Safe Cleaning Method | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Baked-on food | Baking soda paste | 1. Apply paste to stain. 2. Let sit 15–30 minutes. 3. Scrub with non-abrasive sponge. 4. Rinse thoroughly. |
| Tea/Coffee stains | White vinegar soak | 1. Soak in 1:1 vinegar and hot water for 1 hour. 2. Wash normally. |
| Burnt pans | Baking soda boil | 1. Fill pan with water and ¼ cup baking soda. 2. Boil 10 minutes. 3. Let cool, then scrub gently. |
| Greasy residue | Dish soap & hot water | 1. Use extra dish soap and hottest water safe for the material. 2. Soak before washing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Ajax powder to clean my oven racks?
Yes, Ajax powder can be used on oven racks (outside the oven) because they are not considered dishware. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
What happens if I accidentally use Ajax cleanser on a plate?
Wash the plate multiple times with hot water and dish soap. If scratched, discard it if you’re concerned about harboring bacteria in scratches.
Is Ajax Dishwashing Liquid antibacterial?
Some variants are. Check the label—antibacterial dish liquids can provide extra germ removal but are not a substitute for sanitizing in high-temperature water.
Can Ajax powder clean silverware?
Not recommended. The abrasives can scratch metal, and chemicals may react with silver or stainless steel. Use a dedicated silver polish instead.
Final Verdict
While Ajax Dishwashing Liquid is an excellent choice for daily dish cleaning, Ajax abrasive cleanser powder should never be used on dishes, glasses, or cookware. The risks of chemical residue, surface damage, and potential health concerns far outweigh any cleaning benefits. Always use products as intended by the manufacturer, and when in doubt, stick to gentle, food-safe cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, and trusted dish soaps.
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