Washing alkalis
Washing alkalis is a non-specific collective term for chemicals that are used in detergents to raise and stabilize the pH value of the aqueous solution ( pH buffer ).
The pH value supports the washing power; a "wash liquor" is created. In addition to the property of raising the pH value, the chemicals can have other properties. In detergents that use zeolites as softeners , sodium carbonate is often used for the pH value.
By using them, the fibers swell and the dirt is easier to loosen.