Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is commonly used for the neutralization of alkaline agents, as a bleaching agent, in food, textile, metal, and rubber industries. It is neutralized if released into the soil and it rapidly hydrolyzes when exposed to water.Hydrochloric acid is used in toilet bowl cleaners to remove dirt and grime. It is used for cleaning mortar spills off new bricks, removing rust from metals and other surfaces, and etching floors before sealing them.