Oxiclean and PBW (Powdered Brewery Wash) are not the same products. While they both serve as cleaners for brewing equipment, they have different compositions and properties.
Oxiclean is a household cleaner that is commonly used for laundry. It contains sodium percarbonate, which is a compound that releases hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water. This oxygen-based cleaner is effective at removing stains and dirt from various surfaces. However, when used on aluminum kettles or other aluminum brewing equipment, Oxiclean can cause oxidation, resulting in a dark gray coloration. Therefore, it is not recommended for use on aluminum brewing equipment.
On the other hand, PBW is specifically designed for cleaning brewing equipment. It is a caustic cleaner that contains a blend of ingredients including sodium metasilicate, sodium carbonate, and sodium percarbonate. The combination of these ingredients provides PBW with powerful cleaning capabilities. Unlike Oxiclean, PBW is safe to use on aluminum kettles and other aluminum brewing equipment without causing oxidation.
One of the key differences between Oxiclean and PBW is the presence of sodium metasilicate in PBW. Sodium metasilicate is an alkaline compound that helps to break down organic residues and remove stubborn stains. This makes PBW particularly effective at removing beer stone, protein deposits, and other tough residues that can accumulate in brewing equipment. Additionally, PBW is known for its ability to dissolve and remove dried-on krausen, which can be difficult to clean with other cleaners.
In terms of usage, both Oxiclean and PBW are typically mixed with water to create a cleaning solution. However, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the appropriate dilution ratio and contact time. It is also recommended to rinse the equipment thoroughly after cleaning with either Oxiclean or PBW to ensure that no residues are left behind.
In my personal experience as a brewer, I have used both Oxiclean and PBW for cleaning brewing equipment. While Oxiclean can be effective for general cleaning purposes, I have witnessed the dark gray discoloration that occurs when using it on aluminum kettles. This oxidation can be unsightly and may affect the performance of the equipment. On the other hand, PBW has consistently provided excellent results in terms of removing stubborn residues and maintaining the cleanliness of my brewing equipment, including aluminum kettles.
To summarize, while both Oxiclean and PBW are cleaners used in brewing, they have distinct compositions and properties. Oxiclean is an oxygen-based cleaner that can cause oxidation on aluminum brewing equipment, while PBW is a caustic cleaner specifically formulated for brewing and is safe to use on aluminum. PBW's inclusion of sodium metasilicate gives it superior cleaning power, especially for removing tough residues.