Detergents, e.g. are cleaning agents that are used to remove dirt and grime from surfaces. They are often composed of surfactants, which are molecules that have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties, allowing them to dissolve in both water and oil. SOAPS, which are a type of detergent, are usually made from fats or oils combined with an alkali such as sodium hydroxide. They are used for washing dishes, laundry, and other cleaning tasks.