A common method when removing grease from metal is using isopropyl or rubbing alcohol. It cleans, degreases and evaporates fast leaving the surface clean, dry and water spots free.
There are many acetone-based solvents available for degreasing and cleaning metal. Acetone is considered a safer option than many hazardous solvents, because of its low toxicity and strong degreasing capabilities. Acetone-based products are also generally VOC exempt or low VOC.
The best way to clean stainless steel appliances is with Windex or WD-40 directly on the oil stain. if it does nnot work well, toluene, mineral spirits, methylethylketone (MEK), acetone, vinegar, kerosene, gun cleaner can be used to clean stainless.
Caustic potash. That is, straight-up potassium hydroxide, followed by a moderate amount of hot water (not lots, you want it concentrated). This will turn the grease into soap, which will then dissolve in hot water and also act as additional cleaner.
The highest strength industrial degreaser available, Solvalene was created for the toughest degreasing applications. This alkaline fortified, water based degreaser is extremely versatile and can handle most heavy duty cleaning assignments.
WD-40 Specialist® Degreaser
Contains a proprietary industrial-strength solvent that quickly breaks down grease, yet unlike other harsh degreaser solvents is safe on most surfaces including metals, plastics, rubber, glass, aluminum and more (if unsure test on a small area first).
Employ vinegar for stubborn grease stains: Spray white vinegar onto tough, caked-on grease stains and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the grease before wiping it away with a sponge.
WD-40 is a lubricant dissolved in a solvent. While it can break down grease and oil to a certain degree, it also adds back some. This might be desirable if you are cleaning a hinge, conveyor, or corrosive-prone part, but not if you need it truly clean.
Hydrocarbon solvents are commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication for degreasing applications. One well-known type of hydrocarbon solvent is mineral spirits, which is a versatile solvent that can effectively dissolve grease and oil without leaving behind a residue.
NaOH is used to degrease metals. NaOH is a product of chlor-alkali process and it is used for degreasing.
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Wipes. Pre-saturated wipes with 70% or 99+% isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Wipes - 70% Pre-saturated wipes with 70% pure isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Wipes - 99.9%
Degreasers are cleaning agents containing chemicals. They are used to dissolve water-insoluble substances (such as grease or oil). These substances are impossible to remove with standard cleaning agents.
Chlorinated Solvent Degreasers
Chlorinated solvents, such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), have been used in industrial cleaning for many years. These solvents are effective at dissolving oils and other contaminants, making them a popular choice for cleaning parts and machinery.
Rubbing alcohol, specifically isopropyl alcohol, is often used as a cleaning agent for metal surfaces. It is effective at dissolving dirt, grime, and other contaminants, and can also help to prevent the buildup of rust and corrosion on metal surfaces.
A white lubricant, lithium grease is considered an all-purpose lubrication solution. It can be used to lubricate in applications involving metal-on-metal, or even metal-on-plastic. It effectively helps reduce unwanted friction and encourages components to move far more smoothly.
Mix 1 cup of vinegar with four cups of water in a bowl, then decant the mixture into a spray bottle. To use, spray the solution on your surface and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping off.
This concentrated formula cleans and degreases without abrasive chemicals. Removes dirt, grease, oil, and stains from all washable surfaces.
Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser
Because foaming cleaners don't dissipate like a typical spray, they are better suited for these kinds of jobs. Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser is a foaming cleaner that excels on both vertical and horizontal surfaces. It's formulated for tackling tough grease and grime in the kitchen.
1: Vinegar
The acid in the vinegar will help dissolve and soften the tough, crunchy parts (mostly a food-grease mixture), making it easier to scrub away with a soft sponge. For the best results, apply the vinegar when the surface is hot.
Make a soapy solution: Add 1 tablespoon of dish soap to 1 gallon of hot water in a sink or container. You must use hot water. Cold water will cause the grease to solidify, making it harder to wash away thoroughly.
Mix equal parts hot water and isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol in a sink or container. The alcohol will work as a solvent to cut through the grease.
Formulated with alkaline substances such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, alkaline degreasers are highly effective at breaking down grease and oil.
Unpassivated aluminum will be attacked by an alkaline cleaner, even ones with mild pH or silicate corrosion inhibitors. For this, we only recommend using Citranox® Liquid Acid Cleaner and Detergent or Citrajet® Low-Foam Liquid Acid Cleaner/Rinse for degreasing.