Calculator
Designed for cleaning garden tools, pots, trays, and hard surfaces. Avoid applying degreasers directly to soil or plants. Do not mix with bleach or ammonia-based products.
Example Data Table
| Scenario | Batch (L) | Method | Concentrate | Booster | Water | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light film wipe-down | 1.00 | 1.0% concentrate | 10 mL | 0 mL | 0.99 L | Greenhouse benches |
| Medium greasy tools | 2.00 | 1.5% concentrate | 30 mL | 10 mL (0.5%) | 1.96 L | Pruners & trowels |
| Heavy equipment rinse | 5.00 | 1 : 15 ratio | 312 mL | 0 mL | 4.69 L | Mower housing |
| Scrub paste spot clean | 0.50 | 10 mL/L dose | 5 mL | 0 mL | 0.50 L | Pots with stuck residue |
Examples are general starting points. Always rinse tools and allow them to dry.
Formula Used
How to Use
- Select your use case and mix type (spray, wipe-down, or paste).
- Enter the batch size for your bottle, bucket, or tub.
- Choose a calculation method that matches your label or routine.
- Set a mild starting strength, then increase only if needed.
- Optionally enable a booster, keeping the percent low.
- Click “Calculate Mix” to see exact measures above the form.
- Download CSV/PDF for job notes and repeatable batches.
- Rinse tools, dry them, and store the mix safely.
Export Details
CSV includes all inputs and computed amounts. PDF includes a clean summary for printing. Exports appear after you calculate a batch.
Choosing a Strength for Garden Cleanup
Kitchen-style degreasers are useful for pruning tools, pots, trays, and mower housings where oils, sap, and biofilm collect. A light mix reduces residue without leaving a slippery film, making it suitable for frequent wipe-downs. Medium strength suits sticky sap and greasy fingerprints. Heavy strength should stay on hard equipment, followed by a thorough rinse and dry fully to protect soil and nearby plants.
Batch Volume Planning and Waste Control
Mix only what you will use in one to two weeks to limit separation. Smaller batches fit trigger bottles for spot cleaning, while larger batches work for soak tubs and brush work. Measuring total volume first helps keep the concentrate and booster within the container capacity, which prevents over-dosing and wasted product. Record your favorite settings so repeat batches stay consistent.
How the Calculator Converts Methods
The calculator supports three common label styles: percent, ratio, and dose. Percent uses a fraction of the final volume, so increasing the batch scales every ingredient automatically. Ratio divides the total into one concentrate part plus water parts, which is handy when you measure with the same cup. Dose multiplies a mL per liter rate by the batch liters. Each method yields the same target strength when values align.
Booster Options and Compatibility Notes
Optional boosters, such as mild vinegar or citrus, can improve film removal on benches and plastic trays. When you count a booster inside the total volume, water decreases to keep the batch size constant. When added on top, the batch grows slightly. Keep boosters low to avoid strong acidity, limit corrosion on metals, and maintain a rinse-friendly mix. Never combine acids with bleach or ammonia-based products.
Operational Tips for Reliable Results
Warm water speeds grease lift for many surfactants, but very hot water can soften plastics and seals. Agitate gently to reduce foaming, then label the bottle with strength, date, and intended use. For soaking, scrub after five to ten minutes and rinse. After cleaning, rinse tools, wipe dry, and apply a light oil to hinges if needed. Store mixes out of sunlight and away from children.
FAQs
What strength should I start with for hand tools?
Start with a mild mix around 0.5%–1%. Increase gradually only if grease remains after a short soak and brush. Always rinse and dry tools to prevent residue and rust.
Can I use this on plant leaves or soil?
No. This calculator is for hard surfaces like tools, pots, trays, and equipment. Keep mixes off plants and soil, and dispose of rinse water responsibly.
Does the booster replace the soap concentrate?
No. The booster is optional and small. It supports film removal, while the soap concentrate provides the main degreasing action. If you enable a booster, keep the percent low.
Why do my results change when I switch methods?
Percent, ratio, and dose describe the same idea in different units. If you enter equivalent settings, results match. If values are not equivalent, the target strength changes, so the ingredient amounts change too.
What water temperature is best?
Warm water, roughly 30–45°C, improves cleaning for many soaps. Avoid very hot water on plastic sprayers and seals. Test a small area if you are unsure.
How long can I store a mixed batch?
Use within one to two weeks for best performance. Label the date, shake gently before use, and discard if separation, odor changes, or clogging occurs.