Anionic and cationic surfactants can be determined thermometrically by titrating one type against the other. For instance, benzalkonium chloride (a quaternary-type cationic surfactant) may be determined in cleaners and algaecides for swimming pools and spas by titrating with a standard solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Alternatively, anionic surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate can be titrated with cetyl pyridinium chloride.