Degreasers

Solvent-based degreasers dissolve grease and oil quickly and are effective on heavy industrial soiling, but require adequate ventilation and careful handling due to flammability risks. Water-based degreasers are safer in enclosed spaces and generally lower VOC, making them suitable for food environments and daily use. For most commercial cleaning applications, a concentrated alkaline water-based degreaser will handle kitchen and surface grease effectively without the risks associated with solvents.

Not all degreasers are suitable for all surfaces. Always check the product data sheet before use.

Dilution ratios vary by product and application. . Always follow the information on the product label.

Only degreasers specifically approved for use in food environments should be used near food preparation surfaces. These products are formulated to be rinsed off safely or to evaporate without leaving harmful residues. Look for products that comply with food safety regulations and carry appropriate certifications. Standard industrial degreasers are not suitable for use around food and should be kept away from food contact surfaces entirely.

Heavily soiled degreaser solution containing oils or chemicals should not be poured down drains untreated. Check your local authority guidelines and the product's safety data sheet for disposal requirements. Many water-based degreasers can be safely disposed of via a foul water drain once sufficiently diluted, but solvent-based products may require specialist waste disposal. Keeping usage logs helps facilities demonstrate responsible chemical management.

Kitchen environments require food-safe, heavy-duty alkaline degreasers that cut through cooking oil, fat, and carbon build-up. Oven and grill cleaners with a high pH are effective on baked-on grease, whilst general kitchen surface degreasers handle daily countertop and equipment cleaning. Look for products that comply with HACCP requirements and are approved for use in catering environments. Concentrated formats offer better value for high-usage commercial kitchens.

Frequency depends on the environment. Kitchen and catering areas typically require daily degreasing of surfaces and equipment, with deep cleaning of extraction systems and ovens weekly or monthly. Industrial workshop floors may need degreasing weekly. Washroom surfaces benefit from a combined degreaser-disinfectant used daily. Regular light degreasing is more effective and cost-efficient than infrequent heavy-duty treatments.

Commercial degreasers are formulated for higher-frequency use, heavier soiling loads, and larger surface areas than household products. They are available in concentrated formats that are more economical at scale and are often tested to industry standards for efficacy. Many commercial products also carry COSHH data sheets to support workplace safety compliance. Household degreasers are typically pre-diluted and not cost-effective for commercial use.