A composition comprises from 0.1 to 30 wt-% of one or more amino acids, 0.1 to 30 wt-% of one or more surfactants, and optionally one or more hydrotropes. The amino acids may be selected from arginine (“ARG”), lysine (“LYS”), histidine (“HIS”), glycine (“GLY”), or combinations thereof. The composition can be formulated as a cleaning composition, such as a hard surface cleaner, a floor cleaner, or a degreaser. The composition can be used in a method for treating a surface, where the composition is applied to the surface and allowed to remain on the surface for a length of time, and the surface is then wiped.