Industrial Degreasers: What Works, What Doesn't, and What You Actually Need
Grease ruins everything.
Slows machines.
Ruins parts.
Makes the floor a slip 'n slide.
You need the right degreaser. Not the stuff from aisle 12.
You need heavy-duty cleaning that matches the mess.
Let’s break it down.
No fluff. No lab coat jargon.
What Makes a Degreaser Industrial?
It doesn’t come in a kitchen spray bottle.
Industrial degreasers are built for big jobs.
Think:
- Engines
- Machinery
- Workshop floors
- Metal tools
- Rubber seals
- Oily parts bins
They're made to cut grime. Fast.
They come in sprays, liquids, and pre-saturated wipes.
Want the strongest? You’ll need solvent degreasers.
Want safer and greener? Go water-based degreasers.
Want to clean and smell like oranges? That’s citrus degreasers.
All three work. But not all three work everywhere.
Solvent-Based Degreasers: Fast and Ruthless
These are your go-to for baked-on filth.
They melt grease on contact.
No elbow grease needed.
Use these on:
- Engines
- Bearings
- Chains
- Outdoor gear
Why people love them:
- Fast-acting
- Super effective
- Great for metal
Why you need to think twice:
- Flammable
- Strong fumes
- Can mess up plastic or paint
Need serious power? Check out our solvent degreasers range.
Water-Based Degreasers: Safer but Still Tough
These don’t burn your nose hairs.
They lift grease instead of melting it.
Perfect for indoor use or surfaces that need a gentle touch.
Use these on:
- Floors
- Plastics
- Painted machines
- Tools
Good because:
- Non-flammable
- Lower VOCs
- Safer around people
Keep in mind:
- You might need to scrub
- Some take time to work
Shop our eco-friendly degreasers for safer work zones.
Citrus Degreasers: Smells Nice, Still Gets Dirty
These smell like oranges.
But don’t be fooled. They’re mean on grime.
The secret? D-limonene.
It comes from orange peels and cuts through oil like magic.
Use these in:
- Kitchens
- Workshops
- HVAC clean-ups
- Anywhere you don’t want chemical stink
Why people like them:
- Great scent
- Biodegradable
- Works on oil and grime
Watch out for:
- Can mess with plastic and some finishes
- Don’t leave it sitting too long
Explore our citrus degreaser collection for safer, natural options.
How to Pick the Right Degreaser
This is where most people mess up.
They grab whatever’s on offer. Then melt half the machine.
Check this list before you buy:
- Surface safety: Will it eat paint? Melt plastic? Read the label.
- Dry time: Aerosols dry fast. Liquids need a rinse.
- Safety: Flammable? PPE needed? Check the SDS sheet.
- Green rating: Want eco-friendly? Look for low VOC or EPA Safer Choice.
- How you use it: Spray bottle? Dip tank? Pressure washer?
Need help picking? Browse by application type or ask our team.
Common Jobs + What Works Best
- Auto shops: Use solvent for greasy parts, citrus for interiors.
- Factory floors: Water-based with a floor scrubber is ideal.
- Food areas: Stick to NSF-certified or enzyme-based degreasers.
- Marine/aviation: Use solvent blends with corrosion control.
See our automotive degreasers, floor cleaners, and food-safe degreasers to match your job.
How to Use Degreasers Without Making a Mess
- Always test on a small area first.
- Let it sit. Don’t wipe it off too fast.
- Agitate with a brush if needed.
- Rinse it off if the job demands it.
- Keep sprays away from heat or sparks.
Why OneSource Supply Co.?
Because we don’t sell junk.
We’ve got:
- Solvents for fast jobs
- Citrus-based for eco-lovers
- Water-based for everyday cleaning
Plus:
- Bulk sizes to save money
- Trusted brands that don’t cut corners
- SDS sheets on everything
Browse our full line of industrial degreasers and get the right tool for the job.
FAQs
Which degreaser works best on engines?
Solvent-based. It eats grease for breakfast.
Are citrus degreasers really effective?
Yes. Don’t be fooled by the smell. They're tough on oil and safer to use.
Is water-based safe on paint?
Yes, usually. Always test first.
Do I need PPE?
Depends on the formula. Solvents usually require gloves and eye protection.
What’s the most eco-friendly degreaser?
Water-based or citrus. Look for low-VOC and biodegradable labels.
Can I use degreasers in food prep areas?
Only if it’s NSF-certified or marked food-safe.
