Frequently Asked Questions
How do I safely handle and use Safe-HCL?
To safely handle Safe-HCL:
Safe-HCL is formulated to be non-corrosive to skin, unlike conventional muriatic acid. It's still an acid, so wear gloves and eye protection, work in a ventilated area, and always add acid to water. See the Safety Data Sheet for full handling guidance. Store used solution in labeled HDPE separate from fresh product.
To Use Safe-HCL:
Find a work area or work bench that has plenty of ventilation. Cover the work bench with a towel or disposable dog pad.
You can use a 1:1 or even a 2:1, 3:1 or 4:1 ratio of water to acid and still get excellent results. Always add acid to water. The different ratios determine how fast you want the acid to remove the contaminants on the item being cleaned. I personally like a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio. Diluting makes the product last longer, but check items regularly and don't leave them soaking longer than needed.
Place whatever amount of acid solution you need to clean your item or seashells in a glass or HPDE (high density polyethylene) plastic container. You'll see the letters "HDPE" embossed on the bottom or side of the plastic container. Have a second container of glass or HDPE plastic to neutralize the acid. Some people use water but I like to add a little baking soda to the water. You can use 1/2 small box of baking soda to 64 oz (2 quarts of water) to neutralize the acid and stop it from cleaning your item.
Some people like a 3-5 second dunk in the acid to clean items or calcium deposits on seashells at full strength. When the acid is diluted, I like a longer dunk and check the results and re-dunk if necessary. Once you're happy with the reconditioning, dunk your item in the water and baking soda solution to neutralize.
For Rust removal, you can brush Safe-HCL on the metal surface and leave the acid for several minutes up to several hours depending on how rusty the item is. You can use a Scotch-Brite pad to help with the rust removal process.
If you spill any acid solution on an unintended area, pour some neutralizing baking soda and water on the spill and clean up with a towel.
Can I Re-Use Safe-HCL?
Safe-HCL can be reused several times depending on your application. Wait until the acid is spent before disposal. You’ll know Safe-HCL is spent when it stops foaming and does not clean as well as previously.
How do I store Safe-HCL after it’s been used or diluted?
You can store used or diluted Safe-HCL in an HDPE (high density polyethylene) plastic or glass containers with a plastic lid. DO NOT use metal lids or lids with rubber gaskets. It’s a best practice to keep your used or diluted Safe-HCL separate from the fresh Safe-HCL.
How do I dispose of Safe-HCL?
We recommend that you follow local regulations. If connected to a sanitary sewer and not a septic field, you can normally neutralize the acid with baking soda until it stops foaming, then dispose of it down your drain and flush with a minimum of 20 parts water.
What Color is Safe-HCL?
Safe-HCL is a pale yellow to brownish-green color. It is not clear like regular muriatic (hydrochloric) acid because it contains corrosion inhibitors.
My quart bottle does not appear to be full, why is that?
The quart container that we use for Safe-HCL holds nearly 35 ounces when filled to the top. When filled with a full 32 ounces, our Safe-HCL quart container is filled to about an inch below the rim. This gap helps you pour the product without spilling.
Can I buy Safe-HCL locally from a retailer?
Currently, we’re only selling Safe-HCL Direct-To-Consumer (DTC). We are in discussions with several retailers who may carry the product in the near future.
Where do you ship, and how much is shipping?
We ship by ground to the contiguous 48 states and Washington, D.C. Shipping is based on the total weight of your cart and is shown at checkout before you pay:
- Up to 3 lb (for example, 1 quart): $7.99
- 3.01–6 lb (1 seashell cleaning kit, or 2 quarts): $11.99
- 6.01–10 lb (1 gallon, or 3–4 quarts): $12.99
- 10.01–20 lb (for example, 2 gallons): $21.99
- 20.01–40 lb (for example, 3–4 gallons): $29.99
We don't ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands or other U.S. territories, APO/FPO/DPO addresses, or outside the U.S., and we don't offer air or expedited shipping. Safe-HCL is classified as a corrosive liquid (UN1760, Class 8) for air transport (see Section 14 of our Safety Data Sheet), so we ship it by ground only.
Can I order in bulk?
Orders over 40 lb (for example, more than 4 gallons) can't be checked out online. Email sales@safe-hcl.com with the products and quantities you need and your ZIP code, and we'll reply with a bulk quote. This saves our customers significant shipping costs!
WARNING (SDS): May be corrosive to metals. Harmful if inhaled. Causes serious eye irritation. Wear eye protection and chemical-resistant gloves; use outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Avoid breathing mist, vapours, or spray. Keep only in original / HDPE packaging. See Safety Data Sheet before use. Always add acid to water. Neutralize spent solution per SDS / local rules.