On 22 Jan, 10:17, Stuart Noble wrote:

Branded products are often just over-priced basic chemicals

Except when they're _cheaper_. Domestic cleaners are sold in
convenient quantities, at a price that's affordable (maybe excessive,
but not ridiculous or it won't sell) and are in purities adequate for
the task.

Industrial chemicals are often expensive (you're not usually spending
your own money), sold by outfits that scorn retail, come in quantities
that need a truck to deliver and may be of exceptional purity that you
don't need, but do pay for. Don't rule out "Mr Muscle" kitchen
cleaner, as you can't do much that's better, cheaper or more
convenient, even in a lab.

Best of all though tends to be farmers' shops. Bulk, simple chemicals,
reasonable purity and price, and a quantity that's a useful size. Best
place you'll find for NaOH, conc. H2SO4 etc.