Potassium Hydroxide

Bases
CAS 1310-58-3
IUPAC: Potassium hydroxide

Potassium hydroxide (KOH, caustic potash) is a strong inorganic base used as an alkaline builder in cleaning and degreasing formulations. It saponifies fats and oils on contact, making it effective for heavy-duty engine degreasers and industrial cleaners. At concentrations above 2%, it is classified as Skin Corr. 1A (H314) and drives the DANGER signal word in most products containing it. It neutralizes rapidly on dilution and in environmental water, and is not bioaccumulative or persistent. Widely used in soap-making, food processing, and industrial cleaning.

Health & environment profile

VOC: no
Prop 65 listed: no
Asthmagen: no
EPA Safer Choice: no
Aquatic toxicity: no
Biodegradable: no
Bioaccumulative: no
Persistent: no
Ozone depleting: no
Microplastic: no
PFAS: no
Env. score: 5/5

Purpose: Strong alkaline builder — raises pH for saponification of grease and oils in cleaning formulations

2 products contain this

Meguiar's Super Degreaser
engine-degreaser
Prop 65
Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Hyper Foam Wheel and Tire Cleaner
wheel-cleaner
Prop 65

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.