Builders are added to detergents to make them function more effectively. Some are water softeners to deactivate mineral hardness. Others act to emulsify oils and greases. Some aid in the suspension of soil particles to prevent them from settling onto the cleaned surface. Builders may help to maintain the desired alkalinity level.

 

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A well-known builder, phosphate, was used for years to remove minerals from the wash solution. One composition, sodium tripolyphosphate, was the original builder in modern detergent technology.

Phosphates act as nutrients in lakes and streams, causing excessive plant growth and decay that decreases oxygen and kills fish. To reduce this damage to the natural environment, other builders for mineral deactivation have been introduced. Many manufacturers use the newer builders, reducing or eliminating the amount of phosphates used in their detergents. Product labeling contains information about ingredients, including phosphates. Experts consider products with a phosphate content of 0.5 percent or less to be environmentally benign.