Cleaning products, pesticides, and garden chemicals are commonly labeled with a mixing ratio like “1:4” — this calculates exactly how much concentrate and water to combine for a target total volume.
How it works
The total volume is split proportionally between the concentrate and water parts according to the ratio entered.
What this does not include
This does not include molar chemical dilution calculations (M₁V₁ = M₂V₂) — for that, use this site’s chemistry dilution calculator instead, which handles molarity rather than simple mixing parts.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the ratio’s concentrate and water parts, then the total volume you need.
Frequently asked questions
What does a “1:4” ratio mean?
One part concentrate to four parts water — five total parts, with the concentrate making up one-fifth of the mixture.
Does the unit of volume matter?
No — as long as the total volume and the resulting concentrate/water amounts are read in the same unit (ounces, liters, gallons, etc.), the ratio math works the same.
Is this the same as a chemistry lab dilution?
No — a lab dilution problem typically deals with molar concentrations, while this handles a simpler parts-based mixing ratio common on product labels.
