What do you think?
Rate this book
La scienza delle pulizie. La chimica del detersivo e della candeggina, e le bufale sul bicarbonato
Il bicarbonato non disinfetta e non lava; il sapone lava e igienizza, ma non disinfetta; la candeggina sbianca e disinfetta, ma non rimuove lo sporco. Lo sapevate? E poi: scopriamo come eliminare in modo sicuro i cattivi odori dalla lavatrice (insieme a eventuali funghi o batteri), come rimuovere il calcare da lavandini e macchine per il caffè o come liberare uno scarico otturato (spoiler: aceto e bicarbonato sono inutili). È vero che è più economico ed ecologico lavare i piatti in lavastoviglie? I detersivi sono tutti uguali? Come posso impattare meno sull’ambiente? Come tolgo una macchia di sangue sul vestito? E la patina nera dai gioielli? Come uso acido citrico e percarbonato? Dario Bressanini, docente di chimica e ricercatore di professione, torna con un nuovo libro, questa volta dedicato alle pulizie domestiche, inquadrate finalmente sia dal punto di vista pratico sia da quello rigorosamente scientifico. Oltre a sfatare bufale e miti universalmente diffusi, queste pagine spiegano i tanti “perché” del pulito e dello sporco, fornendo al tempo stesso le migliori soluzioni per pulire la casa in modo sicuro ed efficace. Esperimenti, curiosità, approfondimenti, disegni e tabelle rendono ancora più utile il libro, che diventerà il compagno inseparabile per le pulizie di casa.
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
206 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
About the author
Dario Bressanini
19 books274 followersDario Bressanini, nato a Saronno nel 1963, è docente di chimica presso il Dipartimento di Scienza e Alta Tecnologia dell’Università degli Studi dell’Insubria a Como, dove svolge anche attività didattica e di ricerca. Ha un canale su YouTube seguito da oltre 500.000 persone, dove pubblica video inerenti al cibo. In qualità di divulgatore scientifico collabora con numerose testate giornalistiche, radiofoniche e televisive. Tiene sulla rivista “Le Scienze” la rubrica mensile “Pentole e provette” ed è autore del popolare blog “Scienza in cucina”. In concomitanza con EXPO 2015, Bressanini è stato il curatore di “FOOD, la scienza dai semi al piatto”: una mostra dedicata alla scienza del cibo presso il Museo di Storia Naturale di Milano. Per Gribaudo ha pubblicato La Scienza della Pasticceria (2014), La Scienza della Carne (2016) e La Scienza delle Verdure (2019).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 30, 2022
Scrivo dal punto di vista di una persona che pulisce un po' troppo, in generale, e lo specifico in apertura, in modo che queste righe possano essere utili a chi stia cercando un'opinione da questo "lato della Luna":
Ho trovato più equilibrio in questo libro che in tante sedicenti guide sul come tenere in ordine la casa. Dario Bressanini, evidenziando la chimica - e quindi la composizione - dei prodotti che usiamo per pulire, non offre solo un punto di vista interessante, ma propone anche una visione più obiettiva di cosa abbia senso fare, dove, e come.
Rispetto al mio quotidiano, il volume non copre tutte le macchie/occasioni in cui ci si trovi a pulire qualcosa, ma ho trovato che nell'illustrare il funzionamento dei prodotti più comuni, riuscisse anche a dare spunti per cosa sia efficace anche nelle casistiche più insolite. Per contro, dando fiducia ad alcuni passaggi più esaustivi, credo di aver migliorato la mia capacità di salvaguardare gli elettrodomestici.
Piacevole sia come lettura fatta tutta d'un fiato, sia come manuale da spulciare per le sole sezioni di singolo interesse.
Nonostante seguissi il suo autore attraverso le sue pubblicazioni on line, credo proprio che cercherò di leggere altri suoi libri. Assegno il punteggio pieno all'opera non tanto perché sia una lettura strabiliante, ma perché centra in pieno l'obiettivo divulgativo: toccare aspetti quasi preclusi ai non addetti ai lavori, pur rimanendo alla portata di tutti.
P.s. il titolo è fedele al contenuto del libro, il che - di questi tempi - trovo sia un valore aggiunto.
Ho trovato più equilibrio in questo libro che in tante sedicenti guide sul come tenere in ordine la casa. Dario Bressanini, evidenziando la chimica - e quindi la composizione - dei prodotti che usiamo per pulire, non offre solo un punto di vista interessante, ma propone anche una visione più obiettiva di cosa abbia senso fare, dove, e come.
Rispetto al mio quotidiano, il volume non copre tutte le macchie/occasioni in cui ci si trovi a pulire qualcosa, ma ho trovato che nell'illustrare il funzionamento dei prodotti più comuni, riuscisse anche a dare spunti per cosa sia efficace anche nelle casistiche più insolite. Per contro, dando fiducia ad alcuni passaggi più esaustivi, credo di aver migliorato la mia capacità di salvaguardare gli elettrodomestici.
Piacevole sia come lettura fatta tutta d'un fiato, sia come manuale da spulciare per le sole sezioni di singolo interesse.
Nonostante seguissi il suo autore attraverso le sue pubblicazioni on line, credo proprio che cercherò di leggere altri suoi libri. Assegno il punteggio pieno all'opera non tanto perché sia una lettura strabiliante, ma perché centra in pieno l'obiettivo divulgativo: toccare aspetti quasi preclusi ai non addetti ai lavori, pur rimanendo alla portata di tutti.
P.s. il titolo è fedele al contenuto del libro, il che - di questi tempi - trovo sia un valore aggiunto.
November 13, 2022
Il libro che stavo aspettando. Scritto dal chimico di quartiere che preferisco o dal professore di chimica che avrebbe svoltato la mia vita al liceo scientifico, se invece di una annoiata cialtrona avessi avuto lui.
Non aspettatevi consigli per gli acquisti. Qui si impara come pulire, igienizzare, disinfettare (tre cose MOLTO diverse) e a saper capire cosa contengono i prodotti per le pulizie a livello chimico e che ruolo specifico possono avere nella gestione delle pulizie domestiche.
Se siete germofobici e fissati col pulito, questo libro vi serve subito. E potrete fare a meno di considerare tutti i blog di massaie che consigliano bicarbonato e aceto assieme: vi stanno solo facendo sprecare risorse!
Non aspettatevi consigli per gli acquisti. Qui si impara come pulire, igienizzare, disinfettare (tre cose MOLTO diverse) e a saper capire cosa contengono i prodotti per le pulizie a livello chimico e che ruolo specifico possono avere nella gestione delle pulizie domestiche.
Se siete germofobici e fissati col pulito, questo libro vi serve subito. E potrete fare a meno di considerare tutti i blog di massaie che consigliano bicarbonato e aceto assieme: vi stanno solo facendo sprecare risorse!
September 6, 2024
Non-Fiction>Science>Cleaning
A chemist gives us a tour of household cleaners. He does try to give advice on 'regular' household items to use for certain situations, but overall he argues that there are specially and carefully formulated products and explains why THEY are what we should be using. It is important to understand what the 'dirt' is that you're trying to 'clean' to choose the right product for the job.
He gives background on 'original' products, industry developments, and modern choices for laundry, household surface, bathroom, plumbing, clothing, and personal cleansing. He discusses the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, sterilizing, and deterging (as in 'detergent'). He also brings to light the environmental concerns for various cleaning methods, but not in an alarmist way or all-out hatred for all things modern.
If you think that everything in your home can be cleaned with baking soda, vinegar, and lemon then read this book to find out why this is not really true or if you insist on continuing to clean this way what couple of additional items you should be adding to your arsenal.
I especially appreciated his preference for citric acid over using 'regular' lemons due to the consistency of the product (i.e. reliable acidity) and its better aroma compared to vinegar. I will certainly be purchasing some citric acid for my household cleaning.
Protein (hair in the drain, meat on a pot), starch (pasta residue), oils/grease, light coatings of dust, fingerprints, and limescale all require different agents to remove them and get something 'clean.' Which version of a product you choose (liquid, gel, powder, tablet, pod) will determine which ingredients are present and that choice in combination with the hardness/softness of your water, your energy input (elbow grease!), and the material you are cleaning (glass, plastic, aluminum, steel, cotton) will determine if stains are removed, the item is sanitary after cleaning, and how damaged the item will be from the cleaning agents.
If you take nothing else from reading this book, you will know that there is only ONE use in the house for a vinegar+baking soda combination. (Bit of a spoiler here, but it is good for one stage of carpet cleaning and NEVER for drain cleaning.)
My main bone to pick with the book is that he tries to be 'thorough' but at every turn he is explaining how he won't go into more detail about something because the explanation would be too long or the chart too unwieldly. I picked up a BOOK instead of a pamphlet or article about cleaning to get the details! Also, there must be specific product names he could have recommended but he chose to keep all brand names out of it. So if you really want to use this a guide on which brand to buy, you'll need to own a copy of the book and scour every major brand (and generic brand makers') website for the chemical composition of their product to read between the lines of his advice.
"Most of the wildly exciting experiments that fueled my passion for chemistry would be impossible these days." ... "Nowadays, I’d honestly be surprised if a young person fell in love with science after playing with one of these [modern science] kits."
"When it comes to cleaning and chemicals, acidity and alkalinity are probably the most important concepts of all in both theory and practice—namely, in knowing how to pick the right product for the job at hand."
"Crazily, I often see people buy mineral-free bottled water while also spending money on calcium supplements."
"In fact, soap was one of the first chemically synthesized products ever invented by humans."
"Cotton and linen are the only textile fibers that are stronger when they’re wet than when they’re dry."
"The enzyme cellulase detaches microfibrils, allowing color to be seen without any interference once again."
"There’s no such thing as a universal stain remover, since different types of stains require different pH values, bleaching agents, and temperatures."
"You can add a 15-percent citric acid solution to the fabric softener tray or during the rinse cycle." ... "Vinegar is not a softening agent, so save it for your salad dressing rather than pouring this liquid into the dishwasher before running it."
"...studies have shown that washing dishes by hand consumes more than three times the amount of water as using a dishwasher."
"As we learned with laundry detergent (see page 86), gels come with restrictions because this form can make some ingredients difficult or impossible to include."
"Disinfectants can be divided into two groups: oxidizing and non-oxidizing. The latter group encompasses alcohols, phenols, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Oxidizing disinfectants include chlorine compounds, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine."
"Some studies estimate that 87 percent of these infections [foodborne illnesses] come from household kitchens, and the number one suspect is none other than the sponge we use to clean dishes and cooking surfaces."
"Adding a teaspoon of baking soda to the water when boiling legumes and vegetables makes them cook and soften more quickly. It’s not so much the bicarbonate that does the job, but the alkalinity of the water." ... "To make the perfect cream of onion soup, try adding a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water—the onions will soften in no time. For the crispiest roast potatoes, boil them with a little baking soda before baking."
"There are three types of residue that can slow a fast-draining sink to a gradual trickle." ... "So, the main causes of drain blockages are limescale, protein, and fat, and no single chemical substance on the planet can eliminate all three at once. I’d especially like to draw your attention to the fact that neither salt nor baking soda can help with these in any way..."
A chemist gives us a tour of household cleaners. He does try to give advice on 'regular' household items to use for certain situations, but overall he argues that there are specially and carefully formulated products and explains why THEY are what we should be using. It is important to understand what the 'dirt' is that you're trying to 'clean' to choose the right product for the job.
He gives background on 'original' products, industry developments, and modern choices for laundry, household surface, bathroom, plumbing, clothing, and personal cleansing. He discusses the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, sterilizing, and deterging (as in 'detergent'). He also brings to light the environmental concerns for various cleaning methods, but not in an alarmist way or all-out hatred for all things modern.
If you think that everything in your home can be cleaned with baking soda, vinegar, and lemon then read this book to find out why this is not really true or if you insist on continuing to clean this way what couple of additional items you should be adding to your arsenal.
I especially appreciated his preference for citric acid over using 'regular' lemons due to the consistency of the product (i.e. reliable acidity) and its better aroma compared to vinegar. I will certainly be purchasing some citric acid for my household cleaning.
Protein (hair in the drain, meat on a pot), starch (pasta residue), oils/grease, light coatings of dust, fingerprints, and limescale all require different agents to remove them and get something 'clean.' Which version of a product you choose (liquid, gel, powder, tablet, pod) will determine which ingredients are present and that choice in combination with the hardness/softness of your water, your energy input (elbow grease!), and the material you are cleaning (glass, plastic, aluminum, steel, cotton) will determine if stains are removed, the item is sanitary after cleaning, and how damaged the item will be from the cleaning agents.
If you take nothing else from reading this book, you will know that there is only ONE use in the house for a vinegar+baking soda combination. (Bit of a spoiler here, but it is good for one stage of carpet cleaning and NEVER for drain cleaning.)
My main bone to pick with the book is that he tries to be 'thorough' but at every turn he is explaining how he won't go into more detail about something because the explanation would be too long or the chart too unwieldly. I picked up a BOOK instead of a pamphlet or article about cleaning to get the details! Also, there must be specific product names he could have recommended but he chose to keep all brand names out of it. So if you really want to use this a guide on which brand to buy, you'll need to own a copy of the book and scour every major brand (and generic brand makers') website for the chemical composition of their product to read between the lines of his advice.
"Most of the wildly exciting experiments that fueled my passion for chemistry would be impossible these days." ... "Nowadays, I’d honestly be surprised if a young person fell in love with science after playing with one of these [modern science] kits."
"When it comes to cleaning and chemicals, acidity and alkalinity are probably the most important concepts of all in both theory and practice—namely, in knowing how to pick the right product for the job at hand."
"Crazily, I often see people buy mineral-free bottled water while also spending money on calcium supplements."
"In fact, soap was one of the first chemically synthesized products ever invented by humans."
"Cotton and linen are the only textile fibers that are stronger when they’re wet than when they’re dry."
"The enzyme cellulase detaches microfibrils, allowing color to be seen without any interference once again."
"There’s no such thing as a universal stain remover, since different types of stains require different pH values, bleaching agents, and temperatures."
"You can add a 15-percent citric acid solution to the fabric softener tray or during the rinse cycle." ... "Vinegar is not a softening agent, so save it for your salad dressing rather than pouring this liquid into the dishwasher before running it."
"...studies have shown that washing dishes by hand consumes more than three times the amount of water as using a dishwasher."
"As we learned with laundry detergent (see page 86), gels come with restrictions because this form can make some ingredients difficult or impossible to include."
"Disinfectants can be divided into two groups: oxidizing and non-oxidizing. The latter group encompasses alcohols, phenols, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Oxidizing disinfectants include chlorine compounds, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine."
"Some studies estimate that 87 percent of these infections [foodborne illnesses] come from household kitchens, and the number one suspect is none other than the sponge we use to clean dishes and cooking surfaces."
"Adding a teaspoon of baking soda to the water when boiling legumes and vegetables makes them cook and soften more quickly. It’s not so much the bicarbonate that does the job, but the alkalinity of the water." ... "To make the perfect cream of onion soup, try adding a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water—the onions will soften in no time. For the crispiest roast potatoes, boil them with a little baking soda before baking."
"There are three types of residue that can slow a fast-draining sink to a gradual trickle." ... "So, the main causes of drain blockages are limescale, protein, and fat, and no single chemical substance on the planet can eliminate all three at once. I’d especially like to draw your attention to the fact that neither salt nor baking soda can help with these in any way..."
March 3, 2023
03/03/2023
Ottimo saggio nelle vesti di manuale, anche se in certi passaggi è un po' ripetitivo (ma come si dice, "repetita iuvant"!). Finalmente qualcuno che spiega perché aceto e bicarbonato non vanno mai insieme! Avendo un padre chimico, il concetto per cui la chimica vada compresa e non demonizzata mi è sempre stato molto chiaro: tutto è chimica, anche l'aceto, il bicarbonato e il succo di limone! Grazie a Bressanini per non stancarsi mai di ribadirlo.
La mia sola perplessità si riferisce al capitolo sulla lavastoviglie. Sulla carta, fare solo lavastoviglie a pieno carico e non sciacquare i piatti prima del lavaggio sono regole sacrosante ma, nella maggior parte dei casi, appaiono in contraddizione. Infatti, a meno che non si abbia una lavastoviglie che si riempie a ogni pasto (quindi di dimensioni assai ridotte, oppure di proprietà di una famiglia numerosa), se si fa partire l'elettrodomestico solo a pieno carico succede che una discreta quantità di stoviglie non viene lavata alla fine del pasto. Se non si sciacquano, lo sporco può dunque restare attaccato ai piatti per interi giorni. Quando poi, finalmente, si avvia il lavaggio, lo sporco potrebbe essersi seccato troppo sulle stoviglie, pregiudicando il risultato finale.
Ottimo saggio nelle vesti di manuale, anche se in certi passaggi è un po' ripetitivo (ma come si dice, "repetita iuvant"!). Finalmente qualcuno che spiega perché aceto e bicarbonato non vanno mai insieme! Avendo un padre chimico, il concetto per cui la chimica vada compresa e non demonizzata mi è sempre stato molto chiaro: tutto è chimica, anche l'aceto, il bicarbonato e il succo di limone! Grazie a Bressanini per non stancarsi mai di ribadirlo.
La mia sola perplessità si riferisce al capitolo sulla lavastoviglie. Sulla carta, fare solo lavastoviglie a pieno carico e non sciacquare i piatti prima del lavaggio sono regole sacrosante ma, nella maggior parte dei casi, appaiono in contraddizione. Infatti, a meno che non si abbia una lavastoviglie che si riempie a ogni pasto (quindi di dimensioni assai ridotte, oppure di proprietà di una famiglia numerosa), se si fa partire l'elettrodomestico solo a pieno carico succede che una discreta quantità di stoviglie non viene lavata alla fine del pasto. Se non si sciacquano, lo sporco può dunque restare attaccato ai piatti per interi giorni. Quando poi, finalmente, si avvia il lavaggio, lo sporco potrebbe essersi seccato troppo sulle stoviglie, pregiudicando il risultato finale.
May 21, 2024
If you’re a nerdy person this book will be right up your alley. I don’t consider myself too nerdy and I don’t consider myself knowledgeable when it comes to chemistry. However, I do like to clean my house well and efficiently. This book had some very interesting tips that I am going to try to implement for sure. I do feel like the author wrote it mainly to get people to stop using vinegar and baking soda to clean everything. I get it, I do. He does try to work through some of the fear of what’s on the labels too, which I respect but also still question some of it. Overall, pretty technical but also some practical stuff too.
January 22, 2023
«Ogni volta che qualcuno suggerisce di mescolare aceto e bicarbonato per pulire, un chimico muore. Non so esattamente quando sia iniziata questa moda, ma ormai è dilagante. Aprite un qualsiasi gruppo o forum dedicato alla pulizia, cercate dei video per sgorgare lavandini, pulire tappeti o padelle, […] e dopo un po’ inesorabilmente, tanto è il martellamento, comincerete a sentire migliaia di voci che nella vostra testa sussurrano ”contro qualsiasi sporco, mescola aceto e bicarbonato”.» (p.30, Acidi e basi)
Non seguo più l’autore sui social da tre anni, ma l’ho seguito per un buon otto-nove mesi quando aveva circa duecentomila (o forse un po’ meno) follower su insta. Ora ne ha più di mezzo milione (e un po’ di più su youtube – sul canale principale) e qui mi collego al perché ho smesso di seguirlo. A ogni nuova ondata di follower seguivano le storie con annesso box delle domande e, a un certo punto, a molte di esse aveva già risposto in passato – e il sale rosa? e l’intolleranza al lattosio? e gli zuccheri?. Ecco, la stessa cosa succede anche nel libro: siccome alcuni miti sulle pulizie sono più incrostati nell’immaginario collettivo del forno della foodtoker che ti capita di vedere nel feed, una delle soluzioni a cui ricorre il libro è la ripetizione. E credo che questa sia una delle ripetizioni che più mi hanno dato fastidio nel libro, ma di sicuro ce ne sono anche altre.
Nonostante ciò, credo di essere comunque nel target del testo: le pulizie le ho fatte per lavoro e continuo a farle anche adesso a casa e in più mi piace leggere saggi. Questo si fa leggere molto bene, ad eccezione di alcuni approfondimenti chimici un po’ più da manuale (io non studio più chimica da diciotto anni circa), che ho saltato. Ho saltato pure un po’ di paragrafi chiamiamoli più autobiografici che servivano per introdurre un nuovo argomento. In complesso però, mi è piaciuto (mi restano da leggere gli ultimi due capitoli che si trovano gratis online) e penso che varrebbe la pena tenerlo in casa a portata di mano e consultarlo ogni tanto. Magari dopo aver messo i segnapagina perché è abbastanza verboso e ci si mette un po’ a ritrovare le parti utili.
I capitoli più interessanti per me sono quello sui saponi, sulla candeggina e cloro, sul bucato, sui disinfettanti, ma vi consiglio di dare un’occhiata pure ai primi se le vostre nozioni di chimica sono un po’ arrugginite (come le mie). Ho apprezzato molto anche il confronto tra lavastoviglie e lavaggio dei piatti a mano.
Non seguo più l’autore sui social da tre anni, ma l’ho seguito per un buon otto-nove mesi quando aveva circa duecentomila (o forse un po’ meno) follower su insta. Ora ne ha più di mezzo milione (e un po’ di più su youtube – sul canale principale) e qui mi collego al perché ho smesso di seguirlo. A ogni nuova ondata di follower seguivano le storie con annesso box delle domande e, a un certo punto, a molte di esse aveva già risposto in passato – e il sale rosa? e l’intolleranza al lattosio? e gli zuccheri?. Ecco, la stessa cosa succede anche nel libro: siccome alcuni miti sulle pulizie sono più incrostati nell’immaginario collettivo del forno della foodtoker che ti capita di vedere nel feed, una delle soluzioni a cui ricorre il libro è la ripetizione. E credo che questa sia una delle ripetizioni che più mi hanno dato fastidio nel libro, ma di sicuro ce ne sono anche altre.
Nonostante ciò, credo di essere comunque nel target del testo: le pulizie le ho fatte per lavoro e continuo a farle anche adesso a casa e in più mi piace leggere saggi. Questo si fa leggere molto bene, ad eccezione di alcuni approfondimenti chimici un po’ più da manuale (io non studio più chimica da diciotto anni circa), che ho saltato. Ho saltato pure un po’ di paragrafi chiamiamoli più autobiografici che servivano per introdurre un nuovo argomento. In complesso però, mi è piaciuto (mi restano da leggere gli ultimi due capitoli che si trovano gratis online) e penso che varrebbe la pena tenerlo in casa a portata di mano e consultarlo ogni tanto. Magari dopo aver messo i segnapagina perché è abbastanza verboso e ci si mette un po’ a ritrovare le parti utili.
I capitoli più interessanti per me sono quello sui saponi, sulla candeggina e cloro, sul bucato, sui disinfettanti, ma vi consiglio di dare un’occhiata pure ai primi se le vostre nozioni di chimica sono un po’ arrugginite (come le mie). Ho apprezzato molto anche il confronto tra lavastoviglie e lavaggio dei piatti a mano.
May 30, 2023
Grande Bressanini, come al solito.
Un libro che spiega, si basi scientifiche e facendoti capire il senso, cosa sta dietro ai vari prodotti.
Cosa ha o meno senso di fare in base alla superficie da pulire.
La differenza tra pulire e disinfettare, e del perché l'uno non include l'altro.
Molto interessante la parte finale quando parla del perché non usare aceto e bicarbonato insieme ma anche si come usare il bicarbonato da solo.
Insomma un libro da avere, perché con un linguaggio semplice spiega concetti molto complessi.
Super consigliato!
Un libro che spiega, si basi scientifiche e facendoti capire il senso, cosa sta dietro ai vari prodotti.
Cosa ha o meno senso di fare in base alla superficie da pulire.
La differenza tra pulire e disinfettare, e del perché l'uno non include l'altro.
Molto interessante la parte finale quando parla del perché non usare aceto e bicarbonato insieme ma anche si come usare il bicarbonato da solo.
Insomma un libro da avere, perché con un linguaggio semplice spiega concetti molto complessi.
Super consigliato!
February 21, 2024
Bressanini è sempre una garanzia!
Saggio scientifico, ma non troppo, che spiega come funziona la chimica dei detergenti, il loro utilizzo, cosa NON mischiare a seconda di cosa si vuole pulire.
Scritto in maniera semplice e comprensibile, è un ottimo manuale che ognuno di noi (amante della pulizia o meno) dovrebbe avere sullo scaffale. Io stessa - che mi autodefinisco maniaca del pulito - mi sono accorta che facevo molte cose nella maniera sbagliata.
Super consigliato!!
Saggio scientifico, ma non troppo, che spiega come funziona la chimica dei detergenti, il loro utilizzo, cosa NON mischiare a seconda di cosa si vuole pulire.
Scritto in maniera semplice e comprensibile, è un ottimo manuale che ognuno di noi (amante della pulizia o meno) dovrebbe avere sullo scaffale. Io stessa - che mi autodefinisco maniaca del pulito - mi sono accorta che facevo molte cose nella maniera sbagliata.
Super consigliato!!
February 26, 2023
Un libro essenziale in ogni abitazione domestica!
February 26, 2023
Qualche errorino qua e la', ma il buon Bressanini non tradisce mai. Molta chimica, spiegata davvero molto bene, con un sacco di note e referenze per controllare le fonti; personalmente, ho usato le informazioni sul lavaggio dei piatti in ufficio come "Safety Moment" e devo dire che il riscontro e' stato positivo. Speriamo che, salute permettendo, il buon Chimico di Quartiere ci allieti un futuro con altri saggi di questo genere
May 11, 2024
5 unbelievably nerdy stars!
I feel like I got a crash course in Chemistry and should get some college credit for this one. I’ve never felt so enthralled about science and learned so much about the origins of cleaning products, how they’ve evolved, and why certain chemicals work on certain issues.
I listened to the audiobook, but wish I would’ve gotten a hard copy to refer back to certain parts easily. You better believe I ordered myself some citric acid and PH strips, like I’m some sort of Chemistry professor after learning about hard water stains.
Narrator- perfect voice for the book
Thanks so much to the author, NetGalley, and Dreamscape Media for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like I got a crash course in Chemistry and should get some college credit for this one. I’ve never felt so enthralled about science and learned so much about the origins of cleaning products, how they’ve evolved, and why certain chemicals work on certain issues.
I listened to the audiobook, but wish I would’ve gotten a hard copy to refer back to certain parts easily. You better believe I ordered myself some citric acid and PH strips, like I’m some sort of Chemistry professor after learning about hard water stains.
Narrator- perfect voice for the book
Thanks so much to the author, NetGalley, and Dreamscape Media for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2022
Libro utile, che non suggerisce direttamente i prodotti da usare (sebbene in 3-4 occasioni venga analizzata la composizione di un prodotto commerciale ritenuto ormai "iconico") ma che insegna un metodo da applicare alle situazioni che possono presentarsi di volta in volta. Solo due-tre volte ho fatto fatica a seguire le spiegazioni fornite, altrimenti è abbastanza scorrevole (ma non troppo; non riuscivo a leggere più di 30-40 pagine alla volta), ma bisogna stare particolarmente attenti nelle prime 50-60 pagine. Avrei preferito qualcosa "in più" ma mi rendo conto che avrebbe probabilmente comportato 200-300 pagine extra (e sì, ho letto anche i due capitoli in pdf, quelli che non entravano nel libro di 280 pagine).
July 2, 2024
this book was information overload. honestly pretty slow and boring, even as someone who enjoys chemistry and science. i finished with only 42 mins to spare on my libby loan. but you bet im going to be microwaving my sponges to disinfect them from here on out!!
November 17, 2024
Il titolo riassume bene il libro
Offre gli strumenti per dare un senso a tutta questa cosa complicata e a volte contro-intuitiva che è la pulizia e che spesso tende ad essere data per scontata o peggio "innata".
Offre gli strumenti per dare un senso a tutta questa cosa complicata e a volte contro-intuitiva che è la pulizia e che spesso tende ad essere data per scontata o peggio "innata".
January 14, 2023
Completo di parecchie informazioni utili.
Ripetitivo alcune volte ma è giustificabile dal fatto che ogni capitolo è fatto per essere letto individualmente quindi torna a spiegare alcuni concetti chiave ogni volta.
Consiglio vivamente
Ripetitivo alcune volte ma è giustificabile dal fatto che ogni capitolo è fatto per essere letto individualmente quindi torna a spiegare alcuni concetti chiave ogni volta.
Consiglio vivamente
December 20, 2023
Bressanini non si smentisce mai! :)
June 25, 2024
Un libro tecnico al punto giusto, ma molto interessante e ben spiegato. Ti permette di conoscere meglio la chimica dietro ai prodotti che si acquistano e come usarli al meglio!
January 21, 2023
come al solito, una pietra miliare, un must read, Bressanini sarebbe da inventare se non ci fosse.....
Questa è informazione scientifica, quella che solitamente manca nei media. E che, purtroppo, viene surrogata talvolta in maniera molto pericolosa da quel grande strumento che è internet.
Questa è informazione scientifica, quella che solitamente manca nei media. E che, purtroppo, viene surrogata talvolta in maniera molto pericolosa da quel grande strumento che è internet.
March 3, 2024
A lot of useful information is given in this book but I think there’s actually a bit too much information. I found myself extremely reluctant to have to read all that to know how to clean my bathroom. So I think this volume is really for the very serious cleaner, or maybe even the professional cleaner. But for me, as someone who just wants to clean her own house, maybe some takeovers and pointers for each chapter would have been really useful.
3 stars from me. Perhaps 4 or even 5 stars for professional or very serious cleaners.
3 stars from me. Perhaps 4 or even 5 stars for professional or very serious cleaners.
November 29, 2022
Non ci poniamo mai delle domande sui prodotti che utilizziamo per la pulizia della casa e del bucato, questo libro invece è in grado di darci tutte le risposte e farci capire come sono formulati i vari detergenti e perché. Nell'ottica di fare scelte più consapevoli - talvolta anche più ecologiche - l'ho trovato veramente utile ed è stato divertente tornare a studiare un po' di (facile) chimica!
Bel lavoro, grazie Dario Bressanini.
Bel lavoro, grazie Dario Bressanini.
May 27, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC (in audiobook format).
In a world where cleaning hacks flood our screens, promising miraculous results, it’s refreshing to find a book grounded in science. Dario Bressanini’s “The Science of Cleaning” is that beacon of clarity—a definitive, science-backed guide that transforms mundane chores into fascinating experiments.
Bressanini, a chemistry professor, takes us beyond the surface grime into the molecular realm. Armed with solubility, pH, and concentration, he dissects cleaning agents and processes, debunking myths along the way. Here’s what you’ll discover:
Efficiency Unleashed: Ever wondered whether washing dishes in the sink or the dishwasher is more efficient? Bressanini has the answer. Spoiler alert: It involves more than elbow grease.
Bleach and Dirt: Does bleach truly banish dirt? Prepare for a revelation. Bressanini dives into the chemistry behind bleach’s effectiveness (or lack thereof).
DIY vs. Store-Bought: Should you stock up on commercial cleaning supplies or concoct your own at home? The book provides practical insights, empowering you to make informed choices.
Eco-Friendly Solutions: Vinegar and baking soda—do they unclog drains? Bressanini unravels the science, ensuring you tackle household problems sustainably.
Stain Wars: From wine spills to ink blots, Bressanini equips you with strategies to combat different stains. Say goodbye to mystery spots!
Showerhead Woes: Ever wondered what that gunk on your showerhead is? Bressanini reveals the culprit and offers solutions.
But this book is a celebration of science’s practical applications. Bressanini’s enthusiasm leaps off the pages, reminding us that chemistry isn’t confined to labs—it’s part of our daily lives.
Narration: Robert Shiels brings Bressanini’s words to life. His voice, like a gentle breeze, guides us through the chemical labyrinth.
In a world where cleaning is often a chore, “The Science of Cleaning” transforms it into an adventure. Armed with knowledge, you’ll wield your mop and sponge with newfound confidence. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even impress your showerhead.
So, dear reader, grab your lab coat (or apron) and dive into this delightful blend of science and practicality. Your home—and your curious mind—will thank you.
🌟 Unique Factor: Bressanini’s ability to turn chemistry into captivating prose sets this book apart. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about understanding the magic behind it.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Tip: Skip the disposable wipes and opt for reusable cloths. Mother Earth approves.
🔬 “The Science of Cleaning” is a must-read ( or listen if you choose the audiobook version) for anyone who wants to clean smarter, understand the chemistry of cleanliness, and embrace eco-conscious solutions. It’s like having a friendly chemist whispering cleaning secrets in your ear.
In a world where cleaning hacks flood our screens, promising miraculous results, it’s refreshing to find a book grounded in science. Dario Bressanini’s “The Science of Cleaning” is that beacon of clarity—a definitive, science-backed guide that transforms mundane chores into fascinating experiments.
Bressanini, a chemistry professor, takes us beyond the surface grime into the molecular realm. Armed with solubility, pH, and concentration, he dissects cleaning agents and processes, debunking myths along the way. Here’s what you’ll discover:
Efficiency Unleashed: Ever wondered whether washing dishes in the sink or the dishwasher is more efficient? Bressanini has the answer. Spoiler alert: It involves more than elbow grease.
Bleach and Dirt: Does bleach truly banish dirt? Prepare for a revelation. Bressanini dives into the chemistry behind bleach’s effectiveness (or lack thereof).
DIY vs. Store-Bought: Should you stock up on commercial cleaning supplies or concoct your own at home? The book provides practical insights, empowering you to make informed choices.
Eco-Friendly Solutions: Vinegar and baking soda—do they unclog drains? Bressanini unravels the science, ensuring you tackle household problems sustainably.
Stain Wars: From wine spills to ink blots, Bressanini equips you with strategies to combat different stains. Say goodbye to mystery spots!
Showerhead Woes: Ever wondered what that gunk on your showerhead is? Bressanini reveals the culprit and offers solutions.
But this book is a celebration of science’s practical applications. Bressanini’s enthusiasm leaps off the pages, reminding us that chemistry isn’t confined to labs—it’s part of our daily lives.
Narration: Robert Shiels brings Bressanini’s words to life. His voice, like a gentle breeze, guides us through the chemical labyrinth.
In a world where cleaning is often a chore, “The Science of Cleaning” transforms it into an adventure. Armed with knowledge, you’ll wield your mop and sponge with newfound confidence. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even impress your showerhead.
So, dear reader, grab your lab coat (or apron) and dive into this delightful blend of science and practicality. Your home—and your curious mind—will thank you.
🌟 Unique Factor: Bressanini’s ability to turn chemistry into captivating prose sets this book apart. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about understanding the magic behind it.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Tip: Skip the disposable wipes and opt for reusable cloths. Mother Earth approves.
🔬 “The Science of Cleaning” is a must-read ( or listen if you choose the audiobook version) for anyone who wants to clean smarter, understand the chemistry of cleanliness, and embrace eco-conscious solutions. It’s like having a friendly chemist whispering cleaning secrets in your ear.
June 29, 2024
Rating: 4.5 stars
Dario Bressanini’s "The Science of Cleaning" is a gem for anyone who wants to understand the chemistry behind keeping things squeaky clean. Dr. Bressanini, with his PhD in chemistry, breaks down complex ideas into simple, everyday examples that make sense.
The book dives into how soap works, which sounds basic but trust me, it’s fascinating. Bressanini explains, “Soap molecules have two different ends. One end loves water and the other hates it. This makes them great at grabbing onto grease and dirt and washing them away with water.”
He also busts myths like whether hot water cleans better than cold (spoiler: it doesn’t always). His experiments and explanations are easy to follow, even for those of us who barely passed high school chemistry.
One of the highlights is how he explains the ingredients in cleaning products. “Next time you pick up a bottle of detergent, look for surfactants—they’re the real heroes when it comes to breaking down stains.” It’s like having a chemistry lesson without the boredom.
Overall, "The Science of Cleaning" is perfect for curious minds who want to know why their bathroom sparkles after using bleach or why vinegar cleans almost anything. Bressanini’s enthusiasm for the subject shines through, making even the most mundane cleaning tasks seem interesting.
If you’ve ever wondered how cleaning really works or just want to impress your friends with some cool science facts, this book is a must-read. Just be prepared to see your cleaning products in a whole new light.
***Thank you, Net Galley for providing me with an ARC in return for an honest review.
Dario Bressanini’s "The Science of Cleaning" is a gem for anyone who wants to understand the chemistry behind keeping things squeaky clean. Dr. Bressanini, with his PhD in chemistry, breaks down complex ideas into simple, everyday examples that make sense.
The book dives into how soap works, which sounds basic but trust me, it’s fascinating. Bressanini explains, “Soap molecules have two different ends. One end loves water and the other hates it. This makes them great at grabbing onto grease and dirt and washing them away with water.”
He also busts myths like whether hot water cleans better than cold (spoiler: it doesn’t always). His experiments and explanations are easy to follow, even for those of us who barely passed high school chemistry.
One of the highlights is how he explains the ingredients in cleaning products. “Next time you pick up a bottle of detergent, look for surfactants—they’re the real heroes when it comes to breaking down stains.” It’s like having a chemistry lesson without the boredom.
Overall, "The Science of Cleaning" is perfect for curious minds who want to know why their bathroom sparkles after using bleach or why vinegar cleans almost anything. Bressanini’s enthusiasm for the subject shines through, making even the most mundane cleaning tasks seem interesting.
If you’ve ever wondered how cleaning really works or just want to impress your friends with some cool science facts, this book is a must-read. Just be prepared to see your cleaning products in a whole new light.
***Thank you, Net Galley for providing me with an ARC in return for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2024
This book 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.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
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.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
June 2, 2024
The Science of Cleaning is an interesting audiobook that reads like a chemistry textbook, which makes sense since the author is a chemist. The book gives background on different types of detergents, soaps, cleaners, etc, so that consumers can make smart choices about how to clean and what to use. Each chapter seems to have vocabulary terms that are defined and explained, a history lesson on types of cleaners, and warnings to follow for safe usage. Chemical reactions are explained to help the reader understand why cleaning happens (or doesn't happen) with different chemicals, solutions, and at certain temperatures. Readers are cautioned on what can and cannot be mixed; likewise, myths are dispelled as we learn the science surrounding acids and bases, and baking soda and vinegar.
Overall, my science brain loved the chemistry aspect of this book, but some parts might be too technical for some readers who don't have a chemistry background. I think the book or ebook would be more beneficial than the audiobook, as I wanted to highlight important things to remember. As with many non-fiction books, I think the reader can take the parts they find useful at this time; there are plenty of smart tips that can be put into practice right away.
Thank you to NetGalley for an opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
Overall, my science brain loved the chemistry aspect of this book, but some parts might be too technical for some readers who don't have a chemistry background. I think the book or ebook would be more beneficial than the audiobook, as I wanted to highlight important things to remember. As with many non-fiction books, I think the reader can take the parts they find useful at this time; there are plenty of smart tips that can be put into practice right away.
Thank you to NetGalley for an opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
June 13, 2024
The science of cleaning by Dario Briceño in this book the author who is an expert in the subject breaks down all the myths legends and truths about cleaning he tells us why even though vinegar and bacon soda made bubble it doesn’t mean it’s cleaning anything he also tells us what old-time cleaning methods and natural cleaning methods really do work in the ones that don’t. This book was so good it felt like real talk from someone who knows a really enjoyed the narration and especially the chapter on how to clean up after your pets. Even though I don’t think that is what the chapter is called. He tackles popular you tube videos that are steering people in the wrong direction and giving them false information and so much more this is really a good book no I am forgetting some stuff I heard in the book but trust me when I say if your aim is to clean safely and productively then you should definitely read this book. He not only tells you what doesn’t work he also explains why it doesn’t work and then told you what does. I did find a lot of the chemistry talk despite my husband being very educated in the subject at times felt or sounded academic but having said that I really liked the way he explained everything and I definitely recommend this book. I want to thank Dreamscape media for my free arc copy via NetGalley please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.g
September 22, 2024
An interesting and informative read that changed my perspective on cleaning.
The explanations are clear even if, like I do, you don’t have the best understanding of chemistry. The explanations feel detailed enough for the reader to comprehend why reactions and interactions work the way they do without being overwhelmed by too many technical details. I like that they chose not to mention brands instead opting for active ingredients given brands tend to change their formulas and if you are from another country shopping for a recommended brand can be really difficult. This book made me consider new cleaning options and gave me the tools to chose the best product for my needs.
Although the audio book is not the ideal format to own this book it did make for an interesting listening experience, even if some things started to feel a bit repetitive like the repeated explanation for why the mix of vinegar and bicarbonate don’t work as a cleaning substance. I suspect that is a quirk of the book been meant to serve as a reference book instead of a continuous read.
I believe having a physical copy you can skim and skip to certain chapters for reference whenever a particular problem arises is the ideal for to own this book
This review was possible thanks to a free audiobook provided by the publisher via NetGalley
The explanations are clear even if, like I do, you don’t have the best understanding of chemistry. The explanations feel detailed enough for the reader to comprehend why reactions and interactions work the way they do without being overwhelmed by too many technical details. I like that they chose not to mention brands instead opting for active ingredients given brands tend to change their formulas and if you are from another country shopping for a recommended brand can be really difficult. This book made me consider new cleaning options and gave me the tools to chose the best product for my needs.
Although the audio book is not the ideal format to own this book it did make for an interesting listening experience, even if some things started to feel a bit repetitive like the repeated explanation for why the mix of vinegar and bicarbonate don’t work as a cleaning substance. I suspect that is a quirk of the book been meant to serve as a reference book instead of a continuous read.
I believe having a physical copy you can skim and skip to certain chapters for reference whenever a particular problem arises is the ideal for to own this book
This review was possible thanks to a free audiobook provided by the publisher via NetGalley
June 5, 2024
Un libro scritto con un linguaggio che fa comprendere un po' di chimica anche a chi non la studiata. Si comprendono le formulazioni dei detersivi. A volte ci siamo chiesti perché un detersivo è fatto in un certo modo, ma poi non abbiamo dato risposta. Questo libro ci aiuta in questo. Ci dà gli strumenti per scegliere il prodotto giusto a seconda del tipo di sporco (e ciò che lo causa) che dobbiamo fronteggiare. Un ottimo vademecum da consultare quando se ne ha bisogno. Come sempre Bressanini rende un grande servizio a una platea di consumatori disorientati.
This book explains chemistry in a way that even those who have not studied it can understand. It explains detergent formulations and helps us choose the right product for different types of dirt. It is a great reference when we need it. Bressanini helps confused consumers.
This book explains chemistry in a way that even those who have not studied it can understand. It explains detergent formulations and helps us choose the right product for different types of dirt. It is a great reference when we need it. Bressanini helps confused consumers.
March 12, 2025
I learned some important things from this book: no more putting vinegar in the rinse cycle of the washing machine or dishwasher, for it wrecks the hoses & rings of these machines.
Also, don't mix baking soda & vinegar because they nullify each other.
However, this guy has a vendetta against baking soda that is uncalled for. He's genuinely angered by people making their own cleaning products, and is irritated by people trying to avoid harsh chemicals. He's a complete testicle when it comes to the smell of white vinegar. It's not that bad!
The way he explains cleaning chemicals leaves the reader with the impression that this is all too much for us and we better leave it to the experts, who he says time and again, have spent years, even whole careers, perfecting our cleaning products.
So I found it helpful, and also disliked it 👎
Also, don't mix baking soda & vinegar because they nullify each other.
However, this guy has a vendetta against baking soda that is uncalled for. He's genuinely angered by people making their own cleaning products, and is irritated by people trying to avoid harsh chemicals. He's a complete testicle when it comes to the smell of white vinegar. It's not that bad!
The way he explains cleaning chemicals leaves the reader with the impression that this is all too much for us and we better leave it to the experts, who he says time and again, have spent years, even whole careers, perfecting our cleaning products.
So I found it helpful, and also disliked it 👎
May 10, 2024
If you like to clean or know what works best for cleaning, this is a great book.
You will not only learn about the science behind all the things we use to clean but you will also learn the history of cleaning.
I enjoyed the info about getting the brown gunk out of your coffee mugs. That was so interesting.
You will learn about soap, lime scale, bleaching agents, what skin oils do to clothes and all the symbols on your clothing labels and what they mean.
There were times that I know I glazed over because the science was over my head. However I have learned so much and I am sure certain things will pop into my head the next time I am cleaning.
Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for the arc.
You will not only learn about the science behind all the things we use to clean but you will also learn the history of cleaning.
I enjoyed the info about getting the brown gunk out of your coffee mugs. That was so interesting.
You will learn about soap, lime scale, bleaching agents, what skin oils do to clothes and all the symbols on your clothing labels and what they mean.
There were times that I know I glazed over because the science was over my head. However I have learned so much and I am sure certain things will pop into my head the next time I am cleaning.
Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for the arc.
June 2, 2024
I listened to this audiobook because I needed to clean my house and didn't really feel like it.
There's some fun industrial and social history content in this book as well as the chemistry - Proctor and Gamble is a major employer in my city so now that I understand a little more how challenging it is to create products that do everything we want cleaning supplies to do, I understand why P&G is always bringing chemists and engineers in from all over the world.
The author repeats information in some places, making it a little less interesting, but I enjoyed hearing about a topic (chemistry) that I had mostly blocked out of my memory in an approachable way.
My takeaway- just buy the specialized products for specific situations rather than trying to DIY it.
There's some fun industrial and social history content in this book as well as the chemistry - Proctor and Gamble is a major employer in my city so now that I understand a little more how challenging it is to create products that do everything we want cleaning supplies to do, I understand why P&G is always bringing chemists and engineers in from all over the world.
The author repeats information in some places, making it a little less interesting, but I enjoyed hearing about a topic (chemistry) that I had mostly blocked out of my memory in an approachable way.
My takeaway- just buy the specialized products for specific situations rather than trying to DIY it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews