With a can of degreaser in one hand, and brake and parts cleaner in the other, you might think they do the same thing. But each solvent has a use.
What is Degreaser?
Let’s start with degreaser, which is a must-have for any shop. Clean engine parts, spilled oil, and the engine bays of your boat with a few tins of this. You just spray it on, then rinse it off with a hose. There’s a little time to soak between.
It doesn’t matter how thick the grease and dirt is. A parts brush can move it around a little. Degreaser is great. As long as it doesn’t leave behind any residue.
What is Brake Cleaner?
Brake and parts cleaner costs a little more than degreaser, so it’s used a little less often. Isopropyl alcohol is used to make brake and parts cleaner evaporate quickly. It cleans your brakes or other parts without having to take them apart.
Brake cleaner can also be used to clean up small oil stains on the road. However, because it has more power to clean, brake cleaner can damage delicate plastic and rubber parts, as well as paint. It’s best to make sure it only hits the brakes and other metal surfaces that aren’t painted.
