Not sure what is the best solvent to dissolve grease? 

Choosing the right solvent can either lead to a successful cleanup or an even worse mess. But with the variety of cleaning solutions available on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you. 

In this blog post, we’re going to take a closer look at what solvents are, which ones are best for removing grease, and where you can shop commercial degreasers. 

Let’s dive in!

What Is a Solvent? 

A solvent is a chemical that dissolves another substance and creates a solution. Typically, a solvent exists as a liquid, but can also exist as a gas or solid. 

Solvents are popular substances for cleaning due to their ability to dissolve thick substances such as grease, oil, gum, and other tough stains and remove them from a variety of surfaces.

3 Best Solvents to Dissolve Grease 

The ‘best’ solvent for degreasing depends on several factors including: 

• Surface type (i.e., metal, concrete, plastic) 
• Age of the grease stain 
• Safety considerations 
• Environmental impact 
• Application & disposal preferences 
• Regulatory compliance 

Before buying a solvent, it’s important that you have an understanding of the type of surface that needs cleaned, where the surface is located, and a variety of other considerations. 

Failure to get the ‘right’ chemical for the job can result in improper disposal, a poorly cleaned surface, and harm to your employees and the environment. 

Luckily, there are several chemical experts that you can talk to easily determine which solvent is best for you. 

In general, here are three solvents that are great at removing grease from a variety of surfaces:

1. Acetone 
   1. Acetone is a great degreaser. Not only does it effectively remove large amounts of grease, but it evaporates quickly without leaving behind extra residue.  
   2. However, this solvent is not suitable for use on some plastic and rubber surfaces, and is extremely flammable.

1. Alkaline-based degreasers 
   1. Alkaline degreasers are generally water-based degreasers with a pH higher than 7 due to their alkaline ingredients.  
   2. They’re exceptional at removing tough stains, including grease and are considered more eco-friendly than many degreasers on the market. 

1. Hydrocarbon solvents 
   1. Hydrocarbon solvents, otherwise knowns as petroleum-based solvents, are non-polar. They are a great solution for anyone looking to easily remove oil and grease from metal surfaces. 
   2. It’s important to note that prolonged exposure to this chemical can cause serious health side effects. 

Main Takeaways – How to Decide Which Solvent Is Best for You 

Before purchasing any chemicals, always make sure that you know which surface you’ll be applying it to and how to properly handle it—this will help you choose the best chemical for you. 

As with any chemical product, there are always pros and cons. 

However, there are several environmentally preferred options on the market that not only help you remove tough stains, but are better you and the environment. 

Looking for Environmentally Preferred Industrial Solvents? 

At Ecolink inc., we have a variety of ready-to-ship solvents that are effective at removing grease and other stains, and are safer for your employees. 

For over 30 years, we have provided companies across the world with environmentally preferred industrial degreasers. 

Call now to speak with one of our chemical experts and find that best solution for your business.