Detergents, with a general definition, are chemical compounds that dissolve and remove dirt present on any surface from the environment. Detergents are made from substances used in soap washing, and the main difference from soap is that they contain more softening agents. Softeners are alkaline products, and excessive amounts can have irritating effects on the skin and respiratory tract, so their excessive use is not recommended. Detergents do not have the property of killing bacteria. However, by removing dirt, oils, and residues from the environment, they reduce the bacterial count.Detergents and Their General Characteristics Detergents are chemical compounds that alter the physical and chemical properties of water, allowing it to penetrate the hardened residues on dirty tools and utensils, thus making it possible to remove them. Detergents reduce surface tension and exhibit good foaming, wetting, and emulsifying properties. As mentioned above, their main components are soap. SOAP is also a detergent, but it is a simple detergent. It is not very effective in hard waters. It is generally used for personal hygiene. Soap lacks the good heating properties of synthetic detergents and the strong solvent properties of alkali substances in them. In hard waters, it can form a layer of dirt and does not foam well. The formed foam easily collapses. Synthetic detergents are used for cleaning kitchen tools and utensils. Surfaces and utensils that use detergent must be rinsed very well.Detergents should have economic, odorless, good solubility, water-washable, and storage-resistant properties. They should not have corrosive and toxic effects. They should be selected based on the characteristics of the surface, water, and method to be used. The main detergents used in the food industry.