Garage Clean-Up Guide: Degreasers vs. All-Purpose Cleaners
Whether you're changing your oil, rebuilding an engine, or just dealing with years of grime, cleaning your garage can be a serious job. But not every mess needs the same solution—and using the wrong cleaner can waste time or even damage surfaces.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between degreasers and all-purpose cleaners, when to use each, and how to get your garage looking spotless with minimal effort.
What Is a Degreaser?
Degreasers are heavy-duty cleaners designed specifically to break down oils, grease, and lubricants. They use solvents or alkaline formulas to dissolve hydrocarbons that typical cleaners can't touch.
They're ideal for:
- Cleaning engine bays and undercarriages
- Removing oil from concrete floors
- Prepping parts for painting or repair
- Stripping away years of caked-on grime
Degreasers are often more aggressive, so be sure to wear gloves and use in well-ventilated areas. Always check that the product is safe for the surface you’re using it on.
What Is an All-Purpose Cleaner?
All-purpose cleaners are formulated to handle light-to-moderate messes on a wide variety of surfaces. They’re less aggressive than degreasers and often include surfactants that lift dirt, dust, and residues from both hard and soft materials.
Use them for:
- Wiping down workbenches
- Cleaning shelves, cabinets, and tools
- Tackling light grease or fingerprints
- Sprucing up painted surfaces or plastic parts
They're a great go-to for daily or weekly cleaning but may not have the punch needed for automotive-level gunk.
When to Use Which
The simplest way to decide: If it’s greasy, oily, or sticky—use a degreaser. If it’s dusty, dirty, or lightly soiled—use an all-purpose cleaner.
That said, it’s not uncommon to use both. Start with a degreaser for heavy contamination, then follow up with an all-purpose cleaner to remove residues and restore a clean finish.
Safety and Application Tips
- Always wear gloves and eye protection when working with degreasers.
- Test cleaners on a small, hidden area before full application.
- Use microfiber cloths for best results and to avoid scratching.
- Don’t mix products unless the label says it’s safe to do so.
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Dispose of used rags and runoff properly, especially when dealing with solvents.
Final Thoughts
A clean garage is safer, more efficient, and a lot more enjoyable to work in. Choosing the right cleaner makes the job easier and protects your surfaces from damage.
Explore OneSource Supply Co.’s full selection of degreasers and all-purpose cleaners for your next clean-up: https://onesourcesupplyco.com/collections/industrial-cleaners
