"High concentrations of carbonates in Mono Lake make it very alkaline. The pH of Mono Lake is approximately 10 (this measure of alkalinity is roughly equivalent to household glass cleaner). Because of this high alkalinity, Mono Lake water tastes bitter and feels slippery. Some observers of Mono Lake water claim it feels and behaves a lot like soapy water (sulfates and carbonates are a factor). William Brewer no doubt found this to be the case; however, you may not wish to repeat Mr. Brewer's laundry experiment - Mono Lake water has a high enough pH to deteriorate clothing and footwear after repeated soakings." - Mono Lake Committee