Neutral cleaners are classified by their pH level ranging from 6.0 to 8.0, and vary by the types of solvents and surfactants that are used. A pH neutral product is suitable for industrial use with most ferrous and non-ferrous metals such as tin, carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, zinc, copper, and more. Neutral cleaners are a wise choice for the more reactive metals, such as aluminum and magnesium. The use of neutral cleaners strongly decreases the chance of corrosion to these metals, which can be found when using an alkaline or acidic cleaner.

Neutral cleaners are more frequently used as pretreatment chemicals in iron phosphate systems. The neutral pH of the cleaners will not affect the balance of the phosphate tank. This also means that phosphatizing and cleaning can be done in the same tank resulting in cost savings.

All of the Crest neutral products are used diluted or as additives to other cleaners to boost cleaning power and capabilities. They are also more environmentally friendly and can be easier to dispose of when they are spent.