Different cleaning agents are used depending on the item to be cleaned, the cleaning method and the type of soiling found on the item. There are 4 main types of cleaning agents used in commercial kitchens:

Detergents
Degreasers
Abrasives
Acids

1. Detergents
Detergents are the most common type of cleaning agent, and are used both in the home and commercial kitchens. They work by breaking up dirt or soil, making it easy to wash it away.

The detergents used in commercial kitchens are usually synthetic detergents made from petroleum products and may be in the form of powder, liquid, gel or crystals.

2. Degreasers
Degreasers are sometimes known as solvent cleaners and are used to remove grease from surfaces such as oven tops, counters and grill backsplashes.

Methylated spirits or white spirit were commonly used as degreasers in the past. However, most food businesses now try to use non-toxic, non-fuming degreasers in their operations to prevent chemical contamination.

3. Abrasives
Abrasives are substances or chemicals that depend on their rubbing or scrubbing action to clean dirt from hard surfaces. In commercial kitchens, abrasives are usually used to clean floors and pots and pans.

Abrasives should be used with care as they may scratch certain types of materials used for kitchen equipment such as plastic or stainless steel.

4. Acids
Acid cleaners are the most powerful type of cleaning agent and should be used with care! If they are not diluted correctly, acid cleaners can be very poisonous and corrosive.

Acid cleaners are generally used to remove mineral deposits and are useful for descaling dishwashers or removing rust from restroom facilities.

source: Rexdont.com