Why would a washing powder of high pH or low pH be difficult to handle?

2 answers

Would it irritate the skin? would residue in the clothes be a problem for the wearer?
Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "'washing powder' pH" to get these possible sources:

http://www.ul.ie/~childsp/CinA/Issue45/what_in_deterg.htm
http://www.greenplumbers.com.au/information/wet/suitable-greywater-washing-agents/
http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Eslee-Enzyme-Washing-Powder/dp/B000JKGA8W
http://biotechlearn.org.nz/what_is_biotech/bioprocessing/information_sheets/enzymes_in_washing_powders
http://www.laboratorytalk.com/news/mea/mea354.html

In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.

I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.