Lipases have been added to detergents in an attempt to develop more environmentally friendly and energy efficient products for triglyceride-based stains. However, more research is needed to improve the efficiency of lipase-containing detergents. In this work we have examined all the factors affecting lipase performance in detergent formulations, particularly for hard surface cleaning. Several issues, such as thermal and hydrodynamic stability, kinetic aspects, and surfactant compatibility, both in solution and at the oil/water interface, have been addressed and the conditions for an optimal performance have been established. The role of some stabilizers in preventing lipase deactivation has also been considered, and some insight on the mechanisms of lipase deactivation under washing conditions is provided. Finally, washing tests conducted in a continuous flow device which simulates a clean-in-place (CIP) system have demonstrated that, under optimal conditions, a reduction of the surfactant dosage was possible upon the incorporation of lipases in detergent formulations.