Abstract: A method of manufacturing a stable, phosphorous-free alkaline detergent emulsion comprising the steps of (a) blending about 0.1 to 10 wt-% hardness sequestering organic polyelectrolyte having pendent carboxyl groups, about 5 to 40 wt-% nonionic surfactant, and about 1 to 10 wt-% water to form a pre-mix; (b) blending about 5 to 60 wt-% of a 40 to 60 wt-% first caustic solution and the pre-mix to form a first intermediate mixture; (c) blending about 1 to 10 wt-% of an acrylic resin and the first intermediate mixture to form a second intermediate mixture; and (d) blending about 10 to 50 wt-% of a 40 to 60 wt-% second caustic solution to form a detergent emulsion having a viscosity of about 250 to 1000 centipoise at 70.degree. F.The method may optionally include the step of blending the detergent emulsion in a high shear mixer.